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MEMOIR 



OF THE 



KEY.. DAYID ABEEL, D.D 



LATE MISSIONARY TO CHINA. 



BY HIS NEPHEW, 

REV. G. R. WILLIAMSON 



NEW YORK: 
ROBERT CARTER, 58 CANAL ST. 

1848. 









Entered, according to Act of Congress, in the year 18-48, by 

ROBERT CARTER, 

In the Clerk's Office of the District Court of the United States for 

the Southern District of New York. 



/3v 



THOMAS B. SMITH, STKRKOTYPKR, ROBERT CRAIGHEAD, PRINTER, 

216 WILLIAM STREET, N Y. 112 FULTON STREET. 



PREFACE 



The following Memoir, now presented to the Christian 
public, has been prepared at the suggestion of friends, 
who believed that the interests of vital godliness and of 
the cause of Missions called for its publication. 

It is compiled from the Journal, Diary, and Correspon- 
dence of Mr. Abeel. The part of the Compiler has con- 
sisted, chiefly, in arranging and connecting these mate- 
rials, and thus the work appears partly in the character 
of an autobiography. It has necessarily assumed this 
shape, as the distance of Mr. Abeel's field of labor has 
precluded any knowledge of the events which occurred 
during the greater part of his life, farther than they are 
recorded by himself. 

It has been found difficult to give to this work that pe- 
culiar interest which has been thrown around many Biog- 
raphies. The difficulty has been two-fold — consisting in 
the impossibility of recalling to any extent a correspon- 
dence which was scattered over every part of the globe 
— and in the want of knowledge respecting those little 
facts and incidents of life which often develop the char- 
acter in its most delightful aspects, and which can only 
be known by the intimate acquaintance arising from con- 



IV PREFACE. 

tinual personal intercourse. Consequently, the reader 
must not expect to find those points of peculiar interest 
which characterize Biographies prepared where these dif- 
ficulties have not been experienced. 

Whether the fact, that the principal events of Mr. 
Abeel's life are recorded in his own language, compen- 
sates for this deficiency, the public will judge. The work, 
as it is, has been prepared with care ; and the object of 
its publication will be fully attained, if its perusal shall 
lead to more expanded views of Christian duty, and more 
earnestness and zeal in following those, " who through 
faith and patience inherit the promises.' ' 

West Ghent, Columbia Co., N. Y. > 
January, 1848. \ 



CONTENTS 



CHAPTER I. 

PAOS 

Birth and Parentage — Development of Character in Youth — 
Seeks to enter the Military Academy at West Point, and re- 
linquishes his plan through delay — Studies Medicine — His 
Conversion — His Resolution to devote himself to God's Ser- 
vice in the Ministry — Enters the Theological Seminary at 
New Brunswick, New Jersey — Graduates and is Licensed to 
Preach, 9 

CHAPTER II. 

Is Settled at Athens, Greene County, New York—Is Ordained 
to the Work of the Ministry— His Reflections— The Nature, 
Extent, and Success of his Labors in this Field — Labors 
much in other Places during Revivals — Private Diary — 
Health fails, and he is forced to give up his Charge, . .17 

CHAPTER IH. 

Account of the Exercises of Mr. Abeel's Mind in regard to the 
Work of Missions, from the time when he first turned his at- 
tention to it — Difficulties in regard to leaving his aged Par- 
ents — Overcomes all, and resolves to offer himself to the A. B. 
C. F. M., just as his Health fails and he leaves Athens — 
Health so precarious that he sails to St. Johns, expecting 
to Preach there — Is partially hindered from Preaching by the 
Government — The Difficulty is removed, and he Preaches — 
Returns to New York — Preaches in the Reformed Dutch 
Church in Orchard Street, . . . . . . .38 



Vi CONTENTS. 

CHAPTER IV. 



PAGK 



The Way is opened in Providence for his Entrance on Mission- 
ary Labor— Prepares to visit China under the care of the 
Seamen's Friend Society, with the intention of being trans- 
ferred to the care of the A. B. C. F. M. when his term of ser- 
vice as Chaplain shall have expired— Farewell Meeting- 
Reflections on leaving his Native Land— Labors as Chap- 
lain during the Passage— Reaches Canton— Enters on his 
Labors as Chaplain for Seamen— Incidents showing his Suc- 
cess—His Views of the Mode of addressing Sailors on Relig- 
ious Subjects— Closes his Engagement with the Seamen's 
Friend Society, and is transferred to the care of the A. B. C. 
F. M.— Private Diary, 49 

CHAPTER V. 

Mr. Abeel leaves Canton on a Missionary Tour to some of the 
Islands of the Eastern Archipelago— Sails in the Castle 
Huntley to Java— Arrives at Angier, and crosses to Batavia 
by Land— Labors there with Mr. Medhurst, studying the 
Chinese Language — Sails from Batavia to Singapore, where 
he meets Rev. Mr. Tomlin, his Fellow-Missionary— They sail 
to Siam — Remains in Siam six months laboring as a Mis- 
sionary — Letters Home — Description of his Labors, and their 
Success— Leaves Siam for Singapore — Visits Malacca — Con- 
tinually Engaged during this Tour in Missionary Labor — 
Extracts from his Private Diary, 79 

CHAPTER VI. 

His Health is partially restored, and he returns to Siam — La- 
bors there alone as a Missionary for six months — Journal of 
his Labors — Encouraging Appearances — Number of Hear- 
ers, &c, &c. — His Health fails — Leaves for Singapore — La- 
bors as Missionary there, and assists the Chaplain, Rev. Mr. 
Burns — Attends him in his Sickness and Death — Description 
of Mr. Burns' s Character by Mr. Abeel — Assumes his office 
as Chaplain — Is greatly Blessed in his Efforts — Continues at 
the same time his Missionary Labors — Health again fails — 
Sails for London in the Cambridge 104 



CONTENTS. Vll 

CHAPTER VII. 

PAGE 

Mr. Abeel reaches England — Passes over to the Continent, vis- 
iting Holland, France, and Switzerland, dispensing Mission- 
ary Information — His Labors excite much Interest in the 
Cause — Returns to London — Preaches at different places in 
England— Founds Ladies' Missionary Society in London — 
Sails for America — As soon as he reaches the United States 
commences operations, in travelling and extending Mission- 
ary Knowledge — Visits New England — Goes to the South, 
and during the Winter Labors in the Southern States— Let- 
ter stating the Effect of his Labor — Returns to the North, 
and Visits and Preaches in many Churches of his own De- 
nomination — Attends Medical Lectures in New York — Is 
taken Sick and confined four months — Travels when suffi- 
ciently recovered to the Sulphur Springs of Virginia — Spends 
the Summer there — Returns Home and prepares for Sailing 
to China, 132 

CHAPTER VHI. 

Mr. Abeel is Disappointed in his Expectation of Sailing to 
China by sudden Sickness — Forced to spend the Winter in 
the West India Islands, principally St. Croix and St. Thomas 
— Learns now of the existence of an Organic Disease of the 
Heart — His Reflections on the subject — Sails from West In- 
dies and reaches New Brunswick, New Jersey — Labors in 
the Great Revival which was then at its height in that place 
— Is attacked with the Varioloid in New York — Goes again 
to the Southern States for the Winter, and Labors for the 
Heathen as his Health permits — Returns to New York, and 
is again Disappointed in Sailing for China by Sickness — La- 
bors in different Theological Seminaries in Increasing the 
Missionary Spirit — At length his Wish is Gratified, and he 
prepares to Sail for Canton — Farewell Service — Journal 
during the Passage, 161 

CHAPTER IX. 

Mr. Abeel arrives at Canton — Great Changes since he left — 
Dr. Morrison Gone to his Rest — Missionaries Increased in 



Vlll CONTENTS. 

PAGE 

Number — Opium Difficulties soon commence — His Views of 
these Difficulties — His Journal Describing the Course of 
Events during the first two years of the Opium Troubles — 
Describing the Course of the Chinese Authorities in regard to 
the Trade — The Resistance of the English — Engagements 
and Battles — Seizure of Mr. Stanton and his subsequent 
Release, &c., &c. — His Religious Feelings during this time, 177 



CHAPTER X. 

Mr. Abeel leaves China on a Missionary Tour, a favorable op- 
portunity being afforded by the continuance of the War — 
Sails for Singapore — Remains there until September — Visit- 
ing Malacca — Labors as a Missionary, and Preaches during 
this time — Then Visits Borneo — His Delight and Pleasure 
from this Visit — Returns to Macao — Sails for Kolongsoo to 
Examine its Fitness as a Missionary Station— His Favora- 
ble View of its Position — Settles there — Alone in his Labors 
for two months, then is joined by others — His Parents called 
to leave the World — His Reflections — Journal of his Labors at 
Kolongsoo — Missionary Excursion in the Country — Is joined 
by Messrs. Polhman and Doty of the Reformed Dutch Church 
— His Health again fails entirely, and after trying without 
success to receive benefit by short sea voyages, he prepares 
to return to America, 204 

CHAPTER XL 

Mr. Abeel Returns once more to America — His Increasing De- 
bility — Religious Comfort and Enjoyment of the Divine Pres- 
ence — Travels from place to place — Dies at Albany, and is 
Buried at Greenwood Cemetery, 1846, .... 256 

CHAPTER XII. 
Sketch of the Character of David Abeel, . . . .266 

APPENDIX. 

1. Religious Vade Mecum, 290 

2. Sermon on Heaven, 299 



MEMOIR. 



CHAPTER I. 

David Abeel, the subject of this Memoir, was 
born on the 12th day of June, 1804, in the city of 
New Brunswick, New Jersey. His father, David 
Abeel, Senior, was a son of James Abeel, of the city 
of New York, a Deputy Quartermaster in the Conti- 
nental army ; and an elder brother of the Rev. Jno. 
N. Abeel, a pastor of the Collegiate Reformed Dutch 
Church, whose memory is still precious in the hearts 
of many who owned him as their spiritual father. 
David Abeel, Senior, was an officer in the United 
States Navy, during the time of its most severe ser- 
vice in the course of the Revolutionary war. He was 
engaged in several actions ; and was so distinguished 
for his bravery, that, in connection with a few others, 
he received the special thanks of Congress for his 
devotion to the service of his country. He was a 
man of strict morality and worth. The mother of 
the missionary was Jane Hassert, of New Bruns- 
wick, a lady possessed of deep piety, great benevo- 
lence of character, and gentleness of spirit. The 



10 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

Abeel family were originally from the city of Am- 
sterdam, Holland. Both his father and mother had 
passed frtfm earth before his last return to his native 
land. 

We have no record that in his early youth, he 
was the subject of any peculiar religious impressions. 
These years were characterized by a great vivacity 
of spirit, a depth of generous feeling, a high sense 
of worldly honor, and a remarkable devotion to 
friends and friendships. He was also exceedingly 
fond of all athletic exercises ; and at this time his 
constitution became well developed, and acquired 
that strength which enabled him in after-life to per- 
form an immense amount of intellectual labor ; and 
to struggle, for so many years, against the ravages 
of a deeply seated disease, which seldom continues 
so long in the system without producing fatal re- 
sults. 

When fifteen years of age, he made application 
to be admitted into the Military Academy at West 
Point, but on account of the number of those who 
had made previous application, he was led to with- 
draw his request. In this disappointment it is easy 
for us, at the present time, to see the hand of Provi- 
dence preparing the way for his engagement in the 
service of that Master, whom as yet he did not own 
as his Lord. 

He then turned his attention to the study of medi- 
cine, with a view of spending his life in its prac- 
tice. He had been engaged in this study for about a 
year, when, in the providence of God, his mind was 
brought under the influence of religious truth, which 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL \\ 

resulted in his conversion. He has left no account 
of his exercises at the period when it was thought 
that his soul passed from death unto life ; but all the 
circumstances connected with that change are re- 
membered distinctly by the surviving members of 
the family. His convictions were so deep as to pro- 
duce in his mind the fear that he had sinned against 
the Holy Ghost. They increased, as by reflection 
he became more deeply impressed with the incon- 
ceivably fearful nature of that sin. The Spirit of 
God operated on his conscience with great power, 
and the very strength of mind which he possessed, 
only served to deepen his anguish, by enabling him 
to view eternal things more clearly. 

His soul was racked with deep anxiety and tor- 
menting doubts, and many weary days and sleepless 
nights were appointed him. At this time there was 
no settled pastor in the Reformed Dutch Church of 
New Brunswick, where he w r as in the habit of at- 
tending divine service ; and he sought the instruc- 
tions of that venerable father in God, Dr. Living- 
ston, who had the oversight of the vacant church. 

His peculiar treatment of the awakened, while it 
displayed his knowledge of the human heart, also 
unfolded to their view their own guilt and true con- 
dition, and led them more quickly to the cross of 
Christ for pardon. He thoroughly probed the heart 
of this young inquirer, and showed him all its vile- 
ness, before he led him to hope for any relief. It 
was a severe treatment, but it was needed ; and al- 
though the natural heart tor a time rebelled against 
the development of its guilt, yet, under the blessing 



12 MEMOIR OF DAVID A3EEL. 

of God, the faithful teachings of that venerable man 
were the instruments of producing clear and correct 
views of religion in the mind, and of leading the 
penitent soul to resign itself to the mercy of Christ, 
in hope. 

After a long season of deep distress and darkness, 
hope dawned upon him. But when he first found 
relief from his convictions, his peace was by no 
means complete — the clouds did not pass away 
immediately, but they were gradually dispelled, as 
his views of truth and duty became more expanded. 
From this time there arose a lasting intimacy be- 
tween himself and Dr. Livingston. It is to be 
regretted that Mr. Abeel never committed to writ- 
ing the incidents connected with his conversion, 
that we might possess the narrative of his religious 
feelings and exercises, even from the very com- 
mencement of his Christian course ; but from the 
testimony of those who were witnesses of the re- 
markable change which then manifested itself in 
his walk and conversation, and from their recollec- 
tion of his own expressed views, we are well assured 
of the fact, that he himself conceived this to have 
been the season of God's mercy, as displayed in the 
conversion of his soul. 

Then those traits of Christian character began to 
be developed, which distinguished him in all his 
course, and which became more marked as the work 
of sanctification progressed in his soul. 

From the very commencement of his religious 
life, he was led to take a high position in regard to 
duty, and the extent of his consecration to the ser- 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 13 

vice of God. Firm conscientious principle took the 
place of mere manliness and worldly honor, and be- 
came his guide in all his conduct ; leading him to 
exercise the most scrupulous care in regard to the 
feelings of others, and the greatest watchfulness 
over his own spirit. 

And that love for souls which burned so brightly 
and steadily in his bosom, and seemed to be his mas- 
ter-passion, was kindled there by the gracious Spirit, 
when he felt the mercy of God in his own salvation. 
Under its influence his great inquiry was, " How 
can I be of greater service in the cause of my Mas- 
ter ?" Nor did he cease to seek an answer to this 
question, both by wrestling with God in prayer, and 
by watching the course of his Providence, until, by 
devoting himself entirely to God, as an ambassador 
for Christ, he was able to satisfy in some degree the 
desire which burned within him, to take up his cross 
and deny himself and follow Jesus. 

We know not what were his peculiar exercises in 
reference to the work of the ministry; but it is 
hardly probable that possessing such views he should 
falter in the matter ; except when overcome with a 
sense of his unworthiness, and a fear of future un- 
faithfulness — feelings which he often experienced, 
and recorded in his journal. But, whatever were 
his doubts as to his ability, he does not appear to 
have had any with regard to his duty ; and accord- 
ingly we find that, ere long, he addressed himself to 
the study of theology. In the fall of 1823, he en- 
tered the Theological Seminary at New Brunswick, 
where he remained for three years. He engaged in 



14 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

all the studies of the course with conscientious dili- 
gence, and enjoyed not only the respect, but also the 
intimate friendship of his Professors. 

The records kept in his private journal at this 
time, tell us of a spiritual course, chequered by al- 
ternate hopes and fears, yet displaying one great 
aim and desire, which manifested itself in a constant 
struggling after more holiness and devotion to the 
service of Christ. 

During his course in the Seminary, he was as 
much engaged as he could be in accordance with the 
rules of the institution, in lecturing, in visiting the 
sick, the suffering and the poor, and administering 
to them religious instruction and consolation. He 
labored much for the poor at the almshouse, thus 
evincing that missionary spirit which was the gov- 
erning motive of his future life. While he was in 
the Seminary, that great and good man, Dr. Living- 
ston, was called from his labors to his rest in heaven. 
He felt his loss most deeply, and mourned over the 
departure of his spiritual adviser. 

Among his papers the following resolution was 
found, which was formed and subscribed by him, 
while in his preparatory course ; — " Conscious of the 
importance of making an unreserved surrender of 
myself to the service of Him under whose banner 
I have enlisted, I would solemnly determine, (not 
in my own strength, but by the co-operation and 
restraining influence of the Spirit of God, in whom 
alone I trust,) on this, the 15th of September, 1825, 
henceforth to renounce every known sin, though it 
cost me the pain of plucking out an eye, or cutting 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 15 

off a hand ; and of living', as far as possible, a life 
consistent with my high vocation. May the Lord 
grant me his strength, and the glory shall be given 
to him." 

The records in his journal during his last year in 
the Seminary, display his feelings of distrust in re- 
gard to his fitness for the work of the ministry. His 
theological course was finished on the 15th of April, 
1826. On the 20th of the same month he received 
his license to preach the Everlasting Gospel, and his 
written reflections show how highly he valued the 
privilege, and how deeply he felt its responsibilities. 

''April 20, 1826. — Never before have I written 
under such peculiar circumstances. This day I have 
been licensed to preach the Everlasting Gospel of 
my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. I feel impressed 
with a view of the solemnity and deep responsibility 
of my office. Oh, how unfit am I to undertake a 
w r ork which involves such eternal consequences. 
Blessed be God, I do not go forth in my own name, 
I do not depend upon my own sufficiency. My 
strength and confidence are in the Almighty Being, 
who, I trust, has called me. His promises are en- 
couraging ; and his faithfulness, though repeatedly 
proved, has never failed. It is my desire now, be- 
fore I commence the duties of my office, to make a 
solemn and unreserved surrender of myself to the 
great Lord of the vineyard. My life, my health, my 
time, my talents, all that I have, I sincerely desire to 
consecrate to his service. Lord Jesus, take me, and 
make me thine. And now would I come to the de- 
termination, in my Father's strength, to live a life of 



16 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

faith and holiness — to keep myself unspotted from 
the world — to live in the habitual commission of no 
sin — and to mortify the old man, with his affections 
and lusts. Oh, how shall I preach to others that 
which I practise not myself. Oh, thou great God, 
I have no strength of my own, I look to thee for thy 
grace. Now I am thy servant, intrusted by thee 
with the office of the ministry ; keep me, Oh keep 
me, from sinning in thought, word or deed. Let me 
experience the power of godliness in my heart, and 
from this day walk in newness of life ; and hence- 
forth spend and be spent in thy service." 

The next Sabbath he preached for the first time 
in the church of English Neighborhood, and the 
Sabbath after, in the city of New York. 

Large extracts might have been taken from his 
journals, during his life in the Theological Semi- 
nary ; but as the chief end of their compilation is 
to present him to view as the active laborer in the 
vineyard of the Lord, it has been deemed expedient 
to use this journal but sparingly. It is sufficient to 
say that all the records of his early diary display the 
firmness of his Christian character, from its very 
commencement. As the circumstances and duties 
connected with a regular settlement as pastor served 
more fully to develop that character, the extracts 
in the next chapter shall be more copious. 



CHAPTER II. 

On the 26th of May, 1826, David Abeel received 
his commission to labor as Pastor in the village of 
Athens, Greene county, New York ; and in the course 
of two weeks he became established at this place. 

In speaking of its moral condition, he says : " It is 
much like the famous city from which it derived its 
name, in regard to religion. Vice appears to reign 
in all her multiplied forms. Blasphemy and intem- 
perance abound. The Sabbath is in great measure 
disregarded ; and were it not for the power of that 
Master who has promised to be with his ambassa- 
dors, I would shrink from the task and retire in de- 
spair. The place abounds in brick-yards, in which 
the most vulgar and abandoned are engaged." 

When he first reached Athens the church edifice 
was not yet completed, and he used the school-house 
as the place of worship. 

From the very commencement of his labors, he 
manifested the greatest anxiety in regard to their 
result. He was so deeply affected by the appear- 
ance of the wickedness around him, and by thoughts 
of the responsibility of his station, as the one ap- 
pointed of God to lift up the standard against the pre- 
vailing iniquity, that he ceased not, day and night, 



18 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

to struggle in prayer with God for his blessing. He 
then displayed one great principle of his life, which 
always influenced him, and gave additional energy 
to all his labors. He hoped for great things ; and 
his desires, and supplications, and expectations knew 
of no limits, but the broad promises of God's word. 
The record in his diary a short time after his settle- 
ment, testifies to the extent of his anticipations, and 
the depth of his anxiety for his flock. " My earnest 
desire, my prayer, and, I had almost said, my expec- 
tation is, that God would visit us in mercy. There 
are some favorable appearances. Oh, that the Lord 
would make his unworthy servant instrumental in 
arousing his people, that, by co-operation in prayer 
and active exertion, the spiritually dead may be 
awakened." "O God, strengthen and assist thine 
inexperienced, feeble servant." Again : " My heart 
feels deeply anxious for a revival of pure and unde- 
fined religion. The appearances are encouraging, and 
we sincerely hope and pray that God will bless us." 
In October he was ordained as an evangelist by 
the Rev. Classis of Rensselaer. He thus records 
the event and his own feelings : — " On Tuesday the 
Classis met, and ordained me as evangelist in the 
church of Athens. The exercises were solemn, and 
I trust sanctified to my soul. Oh, the responsibility 
of my sacred trust!— 'who is sufficient for these 
things V May that God in whose name and strength 
I desire to go forth, from this time bless me with 
strength equal to my day. If my heart deceive me 
not, my desire is, to be a workman who need not be 
ashamed. I wish to be earnestly devoted to the ser- 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 19 

vice of my precious Jesus. Feeling impressed with 
an idea that my race will be short, may my cove- 
nant God give me the utmost diligence to work 
while the day lasts. O Lord, never leave me/' 

In examining his labors as pastor of this church, 
we cannot fail to notice their extent and variety. 
He used every means, both direct and remote, with 
the most indefatigable diligence, to affect the hearts 
of his people. The effect produced by his labors 
during his brief sojourn in that place, teaches us 
what can be done by an entire consecration of the 
ministry to the service of the Master. His morn- 
ings were spent in his study, his afternoons in going 
from house to house for the purpose of religious con- 
versation with all who attended on the services of 
the church. 

He carefully recorded all the incidents which oc- 
curred in these visits : 

"Sept. 2. — I spent several afternoons last week 
in visiting families, particularly the sick. My anx- 
iety in behalf of this people is continually increasing, 
and I have reason to hope that my labors have not 
been in vain in the Lord." 

"July 9. — This day has been partly spent in vis- 
iting. Among a variety of characters which I saw, 
was one which exceeded all others in obduracy that 
I had ever witnessed. It was the case of an old 
man, probably upwards of seventy years of age. 
Before speaking to him, I understood that he was 
addicted to intemperance, blasphemy, and doubtless 
many other vices equally heinous. When I inquired 
respecting the condition of his soul, he acknowl- 



20 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

edged his wickedness and unpreparedness for heav- 
en. I spoke of his age — he knew that he soon must 
die. I alluded to the future state of his soul — he 
acknowledged that it was not prepared for heaven, 
and thought it never would be ; and was aware, that 
if removed soon, his soul would sink to hell swifter 
than a ball escapes from the cannon's mouth. He 
said the mere thought of hell distressed him dread- 
fully. I spoke of the Saviour — he knew his power 
and willingness. I asked him, why then he did not 
believe in him ? He replied with emphasis, ' Be- 
cause I won't.' He said he knew it was nothing 
but disinclination. Seeing his awful hardness, I en- 
deavored to move him by the terrors of the Lord, 
but all in vain. He knew that he could not stand at 
the day of judgment. He knew that he would be 
speechless, believed that eternal torment was insup- 
portable, acknowledged that the mere reflection 
shocked him, and yielded his assent to every awful 
and awakening truth which could be mentioned in 
relation to his own future state. He said he knew 
them all, was familiar with the word of God, and 
pretended to believe the whole of it, even the most 
alarming descriptions of judgment and destruction ; 
and yet remained as insensible as a rock. I spoke 
of his death-bed scene — he enlarged on the subject, 
and mentioned the principal causes of agony at that 
trying hour. In a word, the most terrifying truths, 
though fully acknowledged, had no effect — the most 
moving and persuasive considerations were entirely 
unheeded. He candidly confessed that he had ex- 
perienced great convictions of conscience, and been 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 21 

deeply impressed with religious truth. He had a 
pious mother, who had often conversed with him, 
but had hardened himself and braced himself against 
the truth. He was the only sinner that I had ever 
seen, who, while he admitted a state of eternal pun- 
ishment, was not supported in his course by the vain 
hope of future preparation. Hope, it appeared, was 
a stranger to his breast ; and yet there appeared 
nothing like despair — nothing, but total stupidity. 
Such is the depravity of the human heart. ' Who 
then hath made me to differ V " 

He preached frequently, as the state of the people 
demanded. His regular services consisted in preach- 
ing twice, and holding a Bible class on the Sabbath, 
and lecturing twice during the week. That his 
labors were often still more abundant, will be seen 
by reference to his diary. 

"December 11, 1826. — For every evening this 
week I have been engaged in some meeting, be- 
sides delivering a funeral address on Tuesday, and 
a thanksgiving sermon on Thursday. This day I 
have preached twice, as usual. My soul was moved 
in prayer this evening, and I felt as if I might com- 
mit sin in something like an impatience for a revi- 
val at the present time. Although my concern for 
sinners is sometimes as an oppressive burden ; yet, 
I wish to say in all cases, ' Thy will be done.' " 

" December 24. — For the last two weeks I have 
been engaged in some exercise almost every night 
in the week. Sometimes I possess much enlarge- 
ment and assistance in the discharge of duties. I 
find myself also at times oppressed with gloomy 



22 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

doubts and fears. I often feel much distressed to 
think that all these services will tend to harden, if 
they do not benefit. I wish I could realize more 
deeply the wretchedness of ruined souls. Oh that I 
could weep and pray for them with all anxiety and 
feeling. 5 ' 

" October 10. — During the past week I have been 
much engaged in preaching, attending prayer meet- 
ings, and visiting families. I sincerely hope that 
the Spirit of God will be poured out in copious ef- 
fusions upon this place. There will doubtless be 
much opposition. The enemies of the Saviour are 
already taking a stand, and we may anticipate much 
resistance. But the strong man has a stronger than 
he with whom to contend. I think that I feel will- 
ing to stem the current of opposition." 

He was faithful to souls, in dispensing to them 
advice in his daily intercourse, and in preaching by 
the power of a holy walk and conversation. And 
perhaps this, under God, was the great element of 
his success. His aim was to make his life an ex- 
emplification of the blessed constraining influence 
of the religion of his Master. Hence his words al- 
ways possessed a power, which can only be derived 
from the conviction on the minds of men, that the 
preacher of the Gospel is sincere and earnest in his 
desires for the spiritual welfare of his flock. He 
never permitted an opportunity to pass, without en- 
forcing on the consciences of those with whom he 
came in contact, the necessity and beauty of holi- 
ness. It was remarked by one under whose roof 
he found a home during the time of his labors at 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 23 

Athens, " I never knew him to sit with the family, 
or even to pass through the room in which they 
were engaged, without making some remarks of a 
religious character — saying something to impress 
the mind with its importance." Such was his in- 
tercourse with all his people. Although he never 
intruded his religious views in conversation so as to 
offend, yet he always managed skilfully to say some- 
thing for the honor of his Master. Nor did this 
constant or frequent introduction of such topics 
leave any impression on the minds of men of a 
gloomy or unpleasant nature. This was not the 
character of his own spiritual exercises ; and he 
chose to commend the cause of his Master by show- 
ing the pleasures connected with it, rather than to 
terrify by the language of warning. Hence, even 
the impenitent were pleased to listen to his lan- 
guage of affection and kindness, and were willing 
to believe in the worth of a religion inculcating 
such joyful truths, and bestowing on the soul such 
glorious hopes. Never, except in peculiar circum- 
stances of guilt and depravity, did he apply to any 
the severe threatenings of the word of God ; and 
then, his manner testified to his sorrow that duty 
demanded such a severe treatment, and showed that 
he was led by love, and not in anger, to warn the 
wanderer. 

As may be expected, the labors of Mr. Abeel, in 
this place, were attended with the blessing of God. 
There never was any season of great excitement, 
but the power of truth manifested itself rather in 
the continual spirit of inquiry, and constant in- 



24 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

gathering of members to the church. Almost from 
the very commencement of his labors, good effects 
were visible. Audiences increased in size and so- 
lemnity, and many were brought to a knowledge 
of the truth as it is in Jesus, who never before had 
experienced the influence of religion on their lives 
in any way. He often mentions in his diary, the 
pleasant state of religious feeling among his people. 

" September 5, 1826. — Thus far I have been en- 
gaged in the duties of my avocation. From all that 
I can learn, the state of things is becoming interest- 
ing. There appear to be a number under great con- 
cern of mind. This evening we had a solemn 
meeting. The Lord assisted me, and I was happy 
to see a number there, who a short time since, of all 
others, appeared the most profane and abandoned." 

" October 22. — This afternoon I conversed with a 
young convert, who appears to be very joyful. She 
thought that my previous conversation with her 
had, through the effectual application of the Spirit, 
led her to where Christ had found her." 

"November 11. — This week I have been engaged 
at my usual labors, and am pleased to find that the 
Lord blesses such an unworthy servant. Lectured 
on Wednesday evening, after which, held the anx- 
ious meeting, and found a number of new cases. 
Every day, almost, brings some news to my ears on 
this joyful subject. The Lord is evidently among 
us. Some of those who before were impressed, 
profess to have a hope. Others, who at first 
mocked, are brought under concern of mind — the 
cases are principally confined to females. To-mor- 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 25 

row I administer the Sacrament of the Supper for 
the first time. I trust the Lord will be with us. 
I have been distressed on account of my want of 
humility. I have not those feelings which I desire, 
although the Lord, I think, gave me more enlarge- 
ment in prayer to-night, than ever in this place." 

"March 11, 1827. — The Lord continues the gra- 
cious operations of his Spirit. Since I last wrote 
there have been apparently some conversions, and 
the solemnity appears at present very encouraging. 
To-day I was strengthened to preach with consider- 
able feeling. My mind and soul were drawn out in 
prayer more than usual, and I have reason to trust 
that good has been done. Many of the Christians 
appear sanguine in their expectations of a great 
shaking; their hearts have been drawn out partic- 
ularly in behalf of some of the men. Oh, that God 
would save them, and bring them up to his help 
against the mighty. There are seasons when my 
spirits flag ; not that I am gloomy, but feel languid. 
I have reason to think that this is owing to morbid 
sensibility in the digestive organs ; and my impres- 
sion is, that I would feel more deeply and constantly 
engaged, were it not for this species of bodily dis- 
ease. I hope not to mistake animal excitement for 
true piety, nor to distrust when not excited. Oh 
that my faith was exceedingly firm, and every grace 
in lively and vigorous exercise." 

" March 25. — I have great reason to be thank- 
ful and encouraged, in view of the success of my 
labors. Since I have been here, twenty have united 
themselves to the church, on the confession of their 

2 



26 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

faith. In the commencement of the past week my 
feelings for lost sinners rose to a degree of agony. 
The burden of my prayer is, that God would bring 
in those who will be useful in his service.' ' 

The fruits of Mr. Abeel's labors were not re- 
stricted to the awakening and conversion of sinners, 
but their good effect was also manifested in the up- 
building of the body of Christ in faith and knowl- 
edge, and the elevation of the standard of personal 
piety. One fact has often been repeated to the 
writer, and it testifies the faithfulness, care, and de- 
votion of this servant of Christ. Not one of all 
the number who joined during his ministry in the 
place, ever returned to the beggarly elements of 
the world. Twenty years have elapsed, and those 
who have not been called away by death, still re- 
main firm in doctrine and practice, and zealous sup- 
porters of religious truth. Thus did God graciously 
own and bless his exertions. 

But although he labored so faithfully among his 
own people, and manifested the greatest interest 
and anxiety in behalf of their spiritual condition, his 
efforts for the promotion of his Savior's glory were 
not confined to them. 

He was eminently catholic in his views of Chris- 
tian intercourse, and he delighted to go whitherso- 
ever his services as a preacher of truth were needed. 
He spent as much time as he could consistently with 
his first duty to his own charge, in visiting the 
neighboring congregations, and especially those in 
which there were special indications of God's pres- 
ence. His assistance was eagerly sought for on 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 27 

these occasions,, and readily given ; and he often 
returned from such services refreshed by the signs 
of God's presence, and encouraged to more earnest 
endeavors and prayer for his own flock. He thus 
records the fact that he engaged in these extra la- 
bors, and speaks of the pleasure derived from them. 

"January 29, 1827. — Agreeably to arrangement, 
my brother Chester and myself started on Monday 
morning of last week for Canaan, the scene of a re- 
vival. We arrived there towards evening, and 
attended a meeting appointed for prayer ; in which, 
in compliance with the solicitations of the pastor 
and others, I delivered a lecture. I remained there 
until Friday morning, and was engaged during the 
greater part of the time in visiting, holding small 
prayer-meetings, and preaching. I preached every 
evening in the week, except one ; the meetings were 
well attended, and exceedingly solemn. My own 
spirit has been refreshed, and I sincerely hope the 
souls of others benefited : the Lord assisted me in 
my exercises, and, I trust, applied the word by his 
Spirit to the souls of those present. 

61 May, 1827.— The last Sabbath I spent at Scho- 
dack and Stuyvesant. Preached three times, and 
rode nearly twenty miles. On Monday I visited 
Kinderhook, where I had been informed that there 
were convincing evidences of God's presence and 
power. My spirit was greatly refreshed. I was 
pleased to find that the children of God were earn- 
est in prayer. Preached on Monday and Tuesday 
evenings. The Lord was with me, and strengthened 



28 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

me for the services. While there, I spent the days 
in visiting and conversing with those whom I met." 

"June 10. — Two weeks have elapsed since I 
have written. During that time I trust much good 
has been done. Besides my usual labors at home, 
I have been engaged more than a week at Kinder- 
hook. My time was spent in visiting all day, and 
preaching and lecturing in the evening. I sincerely 
hope, that, at the judgment, it will be found that 
these labors were not in vain in the Lord. There 
are many who express much anxiety concerning the 
salvation of their souls. In almost every house in 
the village there appear to be either uncommon 
solemnity, or impressions of their lost state. I visited 
almost every family, and was strengthened and em- 
boldened to converse freely with those whom I saw. 
My heart was warmed, and I felt, and still feel, deeply 
interested for that people. What will be the result 
God alone knows. The appearances now are very 
favorable, and it is the hope of His people that many 
souls may be gathered in the fold of the Great Shep- 
herd. I have great reason to bless the Lord that he 
will deign to acknowledge so weak an instrument as 
I am ; and, Oh, that such great and unmerited favors 
might abase me in the dust at his footstool. I am 
exceedingly unworthy of his favorable notice, and 
especially of such signal acts of his mercy." 

Thus did he display that spirit which afterwards led 
him to leave all, and consider the world as the field of 
his exertions for the glory of God, and the good of souls. 

We have now spoken of him only in reference to 
his labors for the souls of others. But it must not be 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 29 

concluded that, in their multiplicity, he neglected his 
own spiritual interests. If this had been the case, he 
never would have been so successful in his ministry ; 
for these things come not, save by fasting and prayer, 
and full personal consecration to the service of God. 
We again quote from his private diary, to show how 
earnestly he strove after the spirit of his Master, and 
fought against the corruptions of the flesh. The 
extracts are illustrations of the fact so often observed, 
that the true children of God can see none so vile as 
themselves ; and that the symmetry of their Christian 
character consists in their spirit of consecration, their 
care and anxiety in the great warfare, and their de- 
sire to keep themselves " unspotted from the world." 
His exercises were doubtless much deepened by an 
afflictive dispensation, which occurred a few months 
after his settlement at Athens. His youngest sister 
died in the flower of her youth, and although she ap- 
peared well prepared for her change, yet the loss to 
him was great. He thus notices the event : 

" Oct. 22, 1836.— I received a letter on Friday, 
stating that my dear sister Joanna had left this world 
of sin and sorrow, on Wednesday afternoon, Oct. 
18th. I feel sorrowful, and yet can say, ' The Lord 
gave,' &c. I trust, and think, that her soul is in 
heaven, and that I shall soon meet her again. Oh, 
that this afflictive dispensation may be sanctified to 
my soul. I am a poor sinner, and need the chas- 
tising hand of God upon me. I feel very anxious 
that it may be sanctified to all the family. Oh, that 
the Lord would convert every member." 

u Oct. 29. — I often think of dear Joanna — can 



30 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

scarcely realize that she has left us — and yet can 
give her up. I trust that she is with her Jesus." 

The following are extracts from different parts of 
his diary during this period : 

"November 19. — My mind has been in its usual 
frame. At times I feel as if I really had the spirit 
of prayer, and then again I cannot, or rather do not 
possess those exercises. I am still reaching at some- 
thing which I have never attained. I wash to be 
emptied of self, to feel my entire dependence on God, 
and to realize that I am nothing. I wish to know 
that I have the purest motive in wishing the blessing 
of God upon my labors. Oh, that the Lord would 
purify my heart. I desire to enjoy the continual 
presence of my Saviour, and especially do I wish to 
have that compassion for lost souls, which will lead 
me to give God no rest until he pour out his Spirit 
upon them. Oh, that I might have all the qualifi- 
cations of a devoted, useful, approved steward. I 
sometimes am troubled with doubts, and fear that I 
may be deceived. Oh, that God would forbid, that 
while preaching to others, I myself should be a cast- 
away." 

"December 3\. — This day closes another year, and 
Oh, that I could add, everything that has the appear- 
ance of lethargy and sin in me. When I look back 
to the close of the last year, and compare myself 
with my situation at that time, I scarcely know what 
to say. I think that this year has been partially 
spent with some degree of devotedness to God's 
service. I have enjoyed pleasant seasons, labored 
more for the Lord than ever, and, blessed be his 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 31 

name, he has crowned my weak exertions with his 
blessing. If my heart deceive me not, my chief joy 
is found in those services which God requires, and 
particularly in knowing that the w T ork of the Lord 
prospers in my hand. But, alas ! there have been 
seasons when my soul has been distressed on account 
of the strength of indwelling corruption. Unhal- 
lowed principles remain to be mortified. I must 
endeavor to guard every avenue and avoid every 
temptation." 

"January 29, 1827. — Yesterday I preached as 
usual. The Lord was with me, and I trust I felt 
the influences of his Spirit. My feelings were, and 
have been for some days much excited. In prayer, 
I have seldom, if ever, realized that solemnity, hu- 
mility, and awe, which I have lately felt. I think I 
know from experience the meaning of that passage, 
which speaks of the Spirit ' making intercession for 
us with groanings which cannot be uttered/ The 
salvation of souls weighs as a heavy burden upon 
my spirits, and when I attempt to pray for them, 
my feelings are at times too big for utterance. I 
have been particularly interested for the spiritual 
welfare of my dear relatives. That which has 
greatly conduced to this tenderness of feeling, is a 
piece which I read in my religious paper, represent- 
ing the dream of an individual in regard to the 
damnation of one who ministered in holy things, 
and who had the appearance of exemplary piety 
and devotedness in the cause of Christ. 

" I often call in question my motives ; and my ear- 
nest prayer and deep anxiety have been, that God, 



32 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

in infinite mercy, would deliver me from unhallowed 
principles, and make me perfectly willing to be es- 
teemed a fool for Christ's sake. I wish to be actu- 
ated by a strong desire to promote the glory of God 
in the salvation of my fellow-men. I wish to have 
not the least concern to obtain the favor of men, 
only as far as the glory of God may be advanced. 
My fear often is, that after preaching to others, and 
having even seals to my ministry, I myself may be a 
castaway. May God, of his unmerited kindness, for- 
bid it." 

"February 19. — I have been endeavoring this af- 
ternoon, to obtain the spirit of fervent agonizing 
prayer, but my efforts have been unavailing. My 
heart really appeared as insensible as the rock ; and 
this is one great cause of my distress, that I cannot 
have those awakening views of eternal realities, 
which are deeply impressed on the minds of some of 
God's people. If I know my own heart, I wish to 
feel more deeply for poor sinners ; that I may pray 
with more earnestness, and preach with more im- 
pressiveness. Oh, that God would qualify me for the 
responsible office which I occupy, and make me re- 
gardless of everything but the promotion of his glory." 

" August 24. — This day I have set apart as a day 
of fasting ; and I sincerely hope that it may prove 
a day of deep humiliation, and fervent prayer. A 
view of the corruption of my heart, has, for some 
time past, filled my mind with doubts and fear. My 
object to-day is, to humble myself before my much- 
abused and neglected Saviour; to implore him for 
the effusions of his Spirit, that I may feel more emi- 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 33 

nently devoted, more earnestly engaged in his sacred 
cause, and less troubled with those temptations and 
sins which have been mentioned. May the day be 
more profitably spent than any preceding period of 
my life." 

" December 23. — My health still feeble, but my 
mind composed and solemn. I have been strength- 
ened to preach as usual. The subjects selected 
were the most savory and nourishing food for the 
Christian — * Who is he that condemneth V &c. ; and 
* Nay, in all things we are more than conquerors, 
through him that loved us/ I was strengthened, I 
trust, in the inner man, and made to rejoice in God 
my Saviour. Oh, what a Saviour! How admirably 
adapted to the circumstances and wants of his peo- 
ple. I mourn that I do not love him more. It dis- 
tresses me to find that any object can produce as 
lively emotions in my bosom, as the mere mention 
of his name. I often feel inexcusable for not real- 
izing the strongest possible affection at every thought 
of my beloved Saviour. To love him with feel- 
ings which none of God's creatures can awaken in 
my heart, has been my effort ; and I sincerely hope 
shall be my invaluable attainment. I have long 
cherished the pleasing idea of loving him with ar- 
dent, nay, supreme affection ; but I have regretted 
that I was obliged to deduce this opinion, rather 
from the general bent of my inclinations and tenor 
of my actions, than the unwavering feelings of my 
heart. When this love is more sensibly realized, 
than the emotions produced by the combined charms 
of the most excellent and estimable creatures in 



34 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

existence, I shall then be prepared to deny myself 
everything, take up my cross, and, without a pang, 
nay, with exceeding joy, follow him to the most dis- 
tant and unpleasant parts of the earth. Then shall 
I be qualified to become a missionary, and, if neces- 
sary, a martyr to the truth of his religion. My heart 
has been touched with compassion for the ungodly 
in this place, and my prayer to God is that they may 
be saved." 

* December 30. — In the review of the past day, I 
feel like expressing my grateful acknowledgments to 
the Lord for the communications of his Spirit. 1 
do not recollect when I have been more deeply hum- 
bled in view of the depravity of my heart. I have 
again had such an insight into its deceitfulness and 
desperate wickedness, that I feel unworthy of lifting 
mine eyes to heaven. It appears to me that, if a 
child of God, I am less than the least of all saints ; 
and I am frequently led to doubt whether the prin- 
ciples of corruption could be so vigorous in their 
operation, if ' the law of the Spirit of life in Christ 
Jesus, had made me free from the law of sin and 
death.' The fear of impure and selfish motives 
checks my exertions, and even straitens me in my 
prayers. I have seen so much of the pride of my 
heart, that I often fear that I have never done any- 
thing for God. Even when I feel most engaged, 
and preach and pray with the greatest earnestness, 
I am led to question my motives, and distrust all my 
exercises." 

" January 27, 1828. — This day I trust that I have 
enjoyed * peace in believing/ I have been refreshed 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 35 

and edified, by reading the memoirs of that devoted 
servant of Christ, David Brainard. I think my ex- 
perience accords in a measure with his, while I feel 
condemned at the vast disproportion in holiness and 
activity of life. My mind for a considerable time 
has been much impressed with the wonderful conde- 
scension of God in the whole work of Redemption. 
The theme is, at times, so presented as to absorb all 
its powers. When I think of the majesty of the 
Godhead, illustrated in the possession of absolute 
perfections, and displayed in his sovereignty over 
numerous worlds — and when I contrast this with his 
strange dealings towards the degraded and hell- 
deserving children of men, — I am lost in profound 
and adoring wonder. I enter into the exercises of 
the Psalmist, when he contemplated the heavens, 
and asked ' What is man V The doctrines of God's 
sovereignty, discriminating grace, &c, are often im- 
pressed upon my mind with peculiar power. While 
my heart bleeds for the multitude of impenitent sin- 
ners around me, I cannot but ask, ' Who hath made 
me to differ ?' What wondrous loyel That one so 
unworthy as I should have been loved with ever- 
lasting love, is sufficient to awaken every sensibility 
of my soul. If I mistake not, the frequent contem- 
plation of this theme has had a sanctifying influence 
on my heart. While it leads me to such views of 
myself as humble my soul, it fills my heart with 
emotions of sincere gratitude.'' 

These are the breathings of a soul ardent in its 
pursuit after high attainments of piety, and devoted 
to a life of holiness. They show that he had already 



36 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

learned much of the depravity of his heart, and was 
unwilling to trust it, even in its highest spiritual ex- 
ercises and enjoyment, lest he should make a false 
estimate of his Christian character. It was the 
study of his life to know himself; to understand his 
own heart, and realize the depths of his own vile- 
ness. This knowledge formed the secret of his suc- 
cess in unfolding to view the depravity of others, 
and teaching them the great practical truths of 
Christianity. This enabled him to guide other 
Christians in their course, and build them up in 
their most holy faith. His experience, even at this 
early stage of ministerial labor, was of no ordinary 
character; for he was unwilling to be contented 
with ordinary attainments. And as was before ob- 
served, his ministerial course at the place of his set- 
tlement derived its influence, in a good degree, from 
the force of his example, from his sincerity and de- 
votedness, and the consistency of his Christian life. 
Even to this day, the remembrance of his character 
exerts an influence over those with whom he spent 
the first years of his ministry ; and they delight to 
honor his memory, and recall to mind his holy walk 
and conversation. 

His labors at Athens lasted two years and six 
months. His incessant exertions, operating on a 
feeble frame, soon produced its effects ; and he be- 
came so great a sufferer from disease, that he was 
at last forced to leave his charge, and seek relief in 
travelling, and in a change of air and scene. It 
was a severe trial for him to leave the people of his 
first affection ; but it was in some degree mitigated 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 37 

by the views which he already entertained in regard 
to missionary labor, and which reconciled him to the 
dissolution of his connection with the church of 
Athens. 

He did not leave this place, however, until he had 
sought and found one who might supply the vacancy, 
and break to his people the bread of life. He says : 
" Before I leave Athens I feel very anxious to see a 
faithful brother in the discharge of the duties of this 
station : then I shall depart in peace." Having ac- 
complished this labor of love to his own satisfaction 
and that of the congregation, he bade them farewell ; 
desirous of renewing his health by a cessation from 
labors, and ready to go whithersoever the Lord 
might guide him as a missionary of the cross. His 
experience as respects his duty to the heathen is so 
interesting, even from its very commencement, and 
so important in the development of his character 
and future course, that although it commences during 
his labors at Athens, yet it will be more profitable to 
present it continuously ; for it may be said that after 
the relinquishment of his pastoral charge, his mis- 
sionary life commenced. 

The day of final account will show the results of 
his labors in this, the commencement of his ministry, 
and his only pastoral charge. Doubtless he has met 
many in the upper sanctuary, whom he could pre- 
sent to God as the fruits of those labors, as his spir- 
itual children and the crowns of his rejoicing. 



CHAPTER III. 

The work of preaching the Gospel to the heathen 
is so arduous, and calls for so much self-sacrifice, 
that no one who views it aright would undertake it 
without much reflection and prayer. It requires 
no small share of moral courage, and contempt for 
personal considerations, to lead any man to engage 
in its labors and privations. The amount of intel- 
lectual and moral strength which will enable one to 
preach the Gospel in opposition to the force and in- 
sults of heathenism, and to bear up under the mul- 
tiplied cares and vicissitudes of missionary life, 
w r ould be sufficient to secure for him a high posi- 
tion in the Church, in an enlightened Christian com- 
munity. He who would be a faithful missionary of 
the cross, must expect to endure the loss of all 
things ; walking in the footsteps of his Master, by 
partaking of his sufferings, and, if necessary, by seal- 
ing the truth with his own blood. Or, if he is not 
called to anticipate such a conclusion to his course, 
he must, from the very commencement, relinquish 
all worldly prospects ; and, leaving his kindred, per- 
form his labors and meet his difficulties alone. 
Surely no one could entertain ideas of joining this 
self-sacrificing band of God's servants, without 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 39 

counting the cost, and seeking the light of God's 
Spirit to unfold clearly the path of duty. 

David Abeel was not of that cast of character 
which would lead him to rush impetuously into any 
important undertaking, although, after he had deter- 
mined his course, his energy and moral courage 
would cause him to persevere even to the end. For 
a long time he reflected on his duty, and made it a 
subject of special supplication to his Master. He 
used every means to enlighten his mind in regard 
to the claims of the heathen. 

He collected missionary intelligence with eager- 
ness, and perused prayerfully the memoirs of those 
who had devoted themselves to this work. The life 
of Henry Martyn, which he studied with care from 
the time of his first impressions in regard to the mis- 
sionary work, is still preserved; and it bears the 
marks of his pencil, designating every paragraph of 
peculiar interest. 

But some extracts from his diary, will show how 
faithfully, and at the same time how cautiously, he 
sought to obtain correct views on this subject. 

"March 29,1827. — I have thought whether the 
Lord is not preparing me, by the peculiar circum- 
stances under which I am placed, for a scene of labor 
far from home and friends. I can only say, in the 
possibility of the event, that I have no inclination to 
urge a single objection ; but if the Lord prepare the 
way and make the inquiry, I hope with the Prophet 
to reply, 'Here am I, send me.' I know the difficul- 
ties attending the life of a missionary in foreign 
lands, and I presume that I am treating the subject 



40 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

more as a dream, than anything which shall take 
place. I often think that something is preparing in 
Divine Providence, of which I have no present con- 
ception. 

" April 9. — Spent part of the day in reading the 
life of that man of God, Henry Martyn; an admira- 
ble character. The dreams of heathen countries 
and missionary labors often possess my imagination ; 
though, while God continues to bless my labors, I 
must remain in the field of my present exertions.'' 

" October 28, 1827. — My mind, for some time past* 
has been in a state of great agitation. The subject 
which has often exercised it, has been impressed 
with more than usual solemnity. I refer to foreign 
missions. When in the seminary, my attention 
was awakened to this subject; and ever since, it 
has been a matter of the deepest interest to me. I 
think the intelligence from the Sandwich Islands 
was the instrumental cause of enlisting my feelings 
in behalf of this important object. Since I have 
been at Athens, my mind has been frequently and 
seriously exercised in relation to my duty on this 
subject. Often have I conversed with my friends, 
often has the feeble voice of my petition ascended 
to God for the direction of his Spirit. 

" So deeply have my feelings been enlisted at the 
consideration of becoming a foreign missionary, that 
I have feared that these thoughts were the sugges- 
tions of Satan, to take my attention from present 
labors. Thus, for years has my mind been exer- 
cised, at longer or shorter intervals. Sometimes I 
have almost relinquished the idea, at the considera- 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 41 

tion of becoming more useful in some other sphere 
of labor ; but though there have been a variety of 
plans, and all generally disconnected from a perma- 
nent settlement, yet that of becoming a missionary 
among the heathen has been the subject of my most 
frequent meditations and prayers. 

" November 2. — This day I have set apart as a sea- 
son of prayer, and fasting, and for the consideration 
of the arguments in favor of going on a foreign mis- 
sion, or remaining in this country. My object has 
been to ascertain, with strict impartiality, the cir- 
cumstances which induce me to believe that the 
Lord designs me for the work ; and those which are 
calculated to convince me that this is not the sphere 
of my labor ; and after determining, as nearly as pos- 
sible, to submit the final decision to Him, in whose 
hands are the hearts of all men. With regard to my 
exercises on the subject — for years I have been oc- 
casionally impressed with its importance. I have 
long cherished the thought, that the Lord was open- 
ing the way for my labors in heathen lands. Often 
have I been induced to present this subject before 
the Lord, and beg the direction of his Spirit. Long 
has the intelligence of missionary labors and suffer- 
ings been regarded with the deepest interest. In 
general I have had no desire to be permanently set- 
tled, no inclination to be encumbered with a family. 
At present, my mind is entirely witling to leave all 
my friends ; and live, and labor, and suffer, and die 
in a land of strangers. My fears arise from not be- 
ing able to determine with precision the great ob- 
ject which at first awakened these feelings, and 



42 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

brought my mind to its present frame. I distrust 
my motives. Another objection arises, from having 
my mind occasionally diverted from this subject to 
other spheres of labor." 

The difficulties which lay in the way of his devot- 
ing himself to the foreign work, were peculiar and 
delicate. He was the only son of his parents, whom 
God had spared to them. They were already in the 
decline of life, and depended on him as their earthly 
prop. They could not readily enter into his views 
in regard to duty ; for it is hard for a mother to give 
up a beloved object of affection, or for a father to 
consent that his child, the son of his old age, should 
depart to climes so distant, that he might not hope 
again to meet him in this world. He went again 
and again from his field of labor to his father's 
house, to reason with his parents and friends, and 
prevail on them to consent to his wishes. 

He recorded his resolution in December, 1827, 
to offer himself to the American Board the ensuing 
spring, but it was a resolution made with much fear 
and trembling. His affection for his kindred was 
deep and abiding, and it increased in view of his 
departing from the land and home of his fathers. 
But his chief fear was, that he had decided to en- 
gage in missionary labor from some improper mo- 
tive. 

"February 2, 1828. — For some weeks past my 
mind has been considerably exercised, in respect to 
the motives which governed me in determining on 
the life of a missionary. I have thought that perhaps 
an indisposition to close mental application, or some 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 43 

other purely selfish principle, may have induced me 
to decide on the measure. And hence my prayer 
has been, that the Lord would prevent me in his 
providence from going to heathen lands, if I have 
not been called to the work ; or from remaining at 
home, if it be his will that I should embark in this 
lofty and responsible enterprise. The consideration 
that God reigns — that Jesus holds the stars in his 
right hand — that even the great apostle of the Gen- 
tiles was hindered from going where he purposed — 
and particularly, that if I commit my way unto the 
Lord, he will direct my steps — have afforded me un- 
speakable consolation, and greatly relieved my mind 
from that distressing anxiety on the subject which I 
have experienced." 

But he was not deterred by these considerations 
from the performance of his duty. He says, " while 
I am sorrowful, my determination is still unshaken 
to make any sacrifice, and labor in any capacity, if 
by these means I may be instrumental of good in 
the Redeemer's kingdom." His spirits soon recov- 
ered their usual serenity : he writes — 

"December 13, 1827. — Since I last wrote, my 
mind has been composed and cheerful, in view of 
the great subject with which it has been absorbed. 
I find that the depression of spirits with which I was 
afflicted, arose from a dependence for comfort and 
happiness on created objects, rather than the great 
source of spiritual consolation ; and hence I have 
been endeavoring to cultivate that disposition of 
soul which is delightfully expressed in the language 
of the devoted Psalmist, ■ Whom have I in heaven 



44 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

but thee, and there is none upon the earth that I 
desire beside thee/ I have arrived at the conclu- 
sion, and doubtless facts will confirm it, that a mis- 
sionary is of all men most miserable, without pos- 
sessing an elevated tone of pious feeling. As he 
takes the last look of all that is dear on earth, the 
bitterness of death will seize hold of him if he cannot 
realize the reviving truth that his best and most be- 
loved Friend is with him, and will never leave nor 
forsake him. I pray the Lord that this may be my 
consolation in every time of trial." 

It was at this time, that his health declined so rap- 
idly, that he was forced to leave his pastoral charge ; 
and on account of his debility, he did not deem it 
advisable to make any arrangement in regard to 
future labor. He was thus in a most trying posi- 
tion, and the ;very nature of his disease, which was 
a chronic dyspepsia, caused a deep depression of 
spirits ; so that he found it necessary to walk alto- 
gether by faith, and not by sight. 

He sought strength and relief from bodily exhaus- 
tion, in travelling ; and the Lord in his goodness 
blessed the means which he used, so that he became 
comparatively comfortable. As winter approached, 
a door was apparently opened for his labors, where 
he might escape the cold and stormy season. 

With the advice of his friends and brethren, he 
sailed for the Island of St. Johns, W. I., where he 
expected, with the permission of the government, to 
preach the Gospel to its inhabitants. He arrived at 
St. John's November 30th, 1828. The passage was 
tedious and stormy, and his health so feeble, that he 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 45 

realized the great necessity of the constant exercise 
of faith and patience. 

November 30, 1828, he writes : — " Since I left 
my native land, God's dealings with me have been 
peculiar, and the exercises of my heart have also 
been peculiar. Contrary to every expectation, we 
were twenty-eight days from the time of embarka- 
tion until we reached the port of destination. Du- 
ring almost all of this time, I suffered exceedingly 
from a short attack of sea-sickness, and a consequent 
prostration of strength, and weakness of stomach. 
Day after day we were opposed by contrary winds, 
or prevented from proceeding by light breezes and 
calms. I have never been placed under circumstan- 
ces where the exercise of faith, and patience, and 
resignation were so necessary, since I commenced 
the Christian course. I constantly felt that the very 
events which were the cause of my distress, were 
necessary ; while it seemed almost impossible not 
to be over anxious in regard to a change. While 
my mind was fully convinced of the wisdom of my 
Heavenly Father, in every dispensation, it was with 
great difficulty that I could suppress the murmurings 
of my rebellious heart. Oh, what a struggle my 
bosom felt ; alternate peace and anguish, hope and 
fear, resignation and murmuring, possessed my mind. 
It was not only a scene of affliction, but, if I mistake 
not, the system of discipline was salutary to my soul. 
During all the passage my mind was principally oc- 
cupied with spiritual subjects, and my heart exer- 
cised with those feelings wich evince the presence 
and operation of the Spirit of God. There was a 



46 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

fervor and importunity in my prayers which urged 
me often to the throne of grace, and gave me pleas- 
ure in remaining there. I have never realized my 
dependence upon God more constantly, than during 
this length of time. I was enabled to resign all my 
concerns in his hands ; while I dwelt with pleasure 
upon the passage, ' Casting all your cares upon him, 
for he careth for you.' Amid all the dangers to 
which we were exposed, and the trials which I ex- 
perienced, I felt always the sweetest assurance that 
all things were working together for my good. I 
have reason to bless God for the discipline of his 
providence, and sincerely pray that its effects may 
be witnessed in all my future course." 

His hopes, and those of his friends, in regard to 
his enjoyment of the privilege of preaching the Gos- 
pel at the island of St. Johns, were doomed to be 
almost entirely disappointed. The inhabitants of 
the island were anxious to hear the word of life from 
his lips, but the government refused permission. 
Here was another trial of his faith, and he felt it 
deeply ; for his heart yearned over those immortal 
beings, and he longed to show them " Christ and him 
crucified." Yet he did exert a beneficial influence 
by his walk and conversation. In the midst of men 
who made not even a profession of attachment to 
religion, he was as a shining light. He also ad- 
ministered spiritual consolation to others, who, like 
himself, were called to pass the wintry season in the 
mild climate of the south. He pointed them to the 
only hope of the suffering and the dying, and exert- 
ed himself in relieving their physical distress. 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 47 

P 

In April, 1829, he was permitted to preach the 
Gospel for a short time to the inhabitants of St. 
Johns. He says : — " Thirty-six years have elapsed 
since the stated preaching of the Gospel in this 
island. There has scarcely been one sermon 
preached in the English language since that time." 
This permission lasted only two months, when an 
order from government led him to relinquish pub- 
lic service. " The occurrence of unexpected events 
has determined my mind on the subject, which pro- 
duced no small conflict of feeling. I received in- 
formation that I must desist from preaching, until 
further instructions. I received liberty to preach 
for two more Sabbaths, and I published that our 
last service would be held to-day. I selected the 
subject, ' The fashion of this world passeth away/ 
and endeavored to apply it to the present occasion. 
The attention was good, and the solemnity deep. 
It remains with God's gracious Spirit to make the 
exercises profitable." 

While spending this winter at St. Johns, he felt 
deeply the want of religious society. There were 
none with whom he could hold communion as fel- 
low Christians. He occasionally visited the Mora- 
vian missionaries in the neighboring island of Tor- 
tola, and was delighted with his intercourse with 
them. Speaking of these brethren, he writes : — 

" June 20. — I started early in the week to the 
end of this island, and crossed from thence to Tor- 
tola. I enjoyed the pleasure and privilege of spend- 
ing two days with these fellow-laborers in the vine- 
yard. It was truly a refreshing season, and the 



48 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

remembrance of it will ever be sweet. Trifling 
points of disagreement were forgotten, and every 
minor consideration merged in the essential and 
mutually received truths of religion. They are 
principally men from England, and though the term 
of service is ten years, yet some prefer a permanent 
residence in these distant islands. I have seldom, 
if ever, enjoyed communion of saints more than in 
the society of these brethren. Oh, how sweet is 
the anticipation of meeting them, and all the de- 
voted servants of Christ, in our Father's house. 
Our views on important subjects harmonized, and 
nothing interrupted the warm and mingled current 
of our feeling. They have my prayers and best 
wishes ; and had it not been for my present engage- 
ments, and the strong prejudices existing in the men 
of authority against them, I should have rejoiced to 
have co-operated with them, and thus spent my leis- 
ure time in these islands, in the scene of their labors. " 

His season of usefulness having closed, and the 
winter having passed, he left St. Johns in July, and 
arrived in New York in August, grateful for being 
permitted once more to visit his native land. He 
was again in doubt as to the path of duty, when the 
Lord opened a field of labor for him in the city of 
New York, where he remained until his final course 
could be decided. He preached in the Protestant 
Reformed Dutch church, in Orchard street, for some 
weeks, with great acceptance and profit. 

While engaged here those events occurred which 
directed his attention to China, and led him to the 
determination of spending his days among its de- 
graded inhabitants. 



CHAPTER IV. 

It is the peculiar consolation of the servant of 
Jesus, that his ways are in the hand of the Lord ; 
and that his chief duty is to watch the indications 
of Divine Providence, assured that all things will 
work together, not only for his own personal benefit, 
but also for the glory of " Him who doeth all things 
well." Such a frame of mind will produce confi- 
dence and holy enjoyment. And in reviewing the 
life of the eminent servant of God whose earthly 
career we are now tracing, we cannot fail to ob- 
serve his peculiar watchfulness, in regard to the will 
of his Master, as developed by the course of his 
providence. His first views of missionary duty had 
been entertained in connection with the idea of la- 
boring in the Holy Land, and spending his days in 
traversing the ground beaten by the footsteps of the 
Son of God, when he was engaged in his mission of 
love. But it w T as not the will of God that he should 
live or labor there ; and he yielded up his wishes 
readily, when the finger of Providence pointed out 
to him another path. He thus notices the circum- 
stances which combined to direct his attention to 
the idolaters of China : — 

"September 24, 1829. — How wonderful are the 

3 



50 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

ways of God. Again has a circumstance occurred 
in his providence, which turns my attention to for- 
eign lands ; and appears, from its appropriateness 
to my situation, to decide the subject of my duty. 
Since I determined by the advice of my friends to 
leave this northern region, and pass the winter in a 
more congenial clime, I have consulted with a 
young gentleman on the subject, who came to the 
north to obtain laborers. He mentioned some facts 
in regard to the limited support of their missiona- 
ries, which determined my mind in regard to the 
impracticability of accepting his proposal ; and left 
me in the uncertainty of any other engagement, 
should I not comply. I had not concluded on the 
precise course I should take, when I was sent for by 
a gentleman, who mentioned that the Seaman's 
Friend Society, and the A. B. C. F. M., were desi- 
rous that I should proceed to Canton in a vessel 
which sails in less than a month, to see what can be 
done in behalf of the sailors who visit that port ; 
and also in behalf of the multitudes of natives, who 
reside on the waters, and in the accessible regions 
of the country. I have not had an interview with 
the Society, but understand that they are anxious 
to see me and engage my services. I may return 
and report, or remain, at option. Certainly the 
opening in Providence is very apropos ; an unsought 
and unexpected opportunity. The time of depart- 
ure, direction of the passage, field of usefulness, ad- 
vantages of health, and accordance with previous 
exercises and determinations in regard to foreign 
lands, connected with no serious obstacle, render 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 51 

my duty in the opinion of all with whom I have ad- 
vised, unequivocal. I know from experience the 
privations and trials of a sea voyage, and a resi- 
dence in foreign lands. I apprehend many difficul- 
ties and sufferings ; but I go in the humble confi- 
dence that God will support, strengthen, and com- 
fort me. I go with the hope of extensive usefulness, 
and believing that my health will be restored, and 
my life protracted and more energetically employed. 
I know many of these expectations are uncertain ; 
but there is a probability connected with them, and 
that is the only ground of calculation on the subject. 
May God direct me. I am happy to know that he 
can change my purpose, if it be his will, as he did 
in regard to my previous scheme/' 

Acting in accordance with these indications of 
duty, he sought the advice of his friends and rela- 
tives ; and having consulted calmly and fully in re- 
gard to the matter, he offered his services to the A. 
B. C. F. M. and the Seaman's Friend Society. His 
offer was unanimously accepted, and the necessary 
preparations commenced. 

" October. — My ultimate object, as they were in- 
formed, was the introduction of the Gospel within 
the extensive unevangelized regions of Eastern 
Asia. My present employment will afford me, not 
only a safe residence among that benighted and 
strongly prejudiced people, but also the means of 
such information, as may originate some practicable 
plan of evangelizing this populous nation. After 
preaching one year in the service of the Seaman's 
Friend Society, 1 shall probably visit the Islands of 



52 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

the Eastern Archipelago, ascertain the best means 
of introducing religion, and devote myself as far as 
possible to its dissemination. At present I have no 
definite purposes of labor, beyond the termination 
of the first year after my arrival. Whether I shall 
conclude to remain in the employment of the So- 
ciety which sends me out — or whether I shall visit 
the neighboring islands — or whether I shall turn my 
attention to the acquisition of the Chinese or Malay 
or Dutch language, — or whether I shall immediately 
return to my native land — must be left to the deter- 
minations of the future. I go to do all the good I 
can ; I go, at least, with a strong desire to be unre- 
servedly and eternally dedicated to the service of 
God. I go with the prayer, that nothing but duty 
may call me back, and nothing but duty may keep 
me there — that the glory of God may be my only 
object in all my plans, in all my exertions." 

The time allowed for preparation was very lim- 
ited ; and he was so greatly hurried, that he declares 
it to have been a season of but little spiritual enjoy- 
ment. Still he was enabled to make every neces- 
sary arrangement. 

The farewell meeting previous to his departure 
for China, was held in the Reformed Dutch Church 
of Garden street, New York. He then received his 
instructions from the Secretary of the Seaman's 
Friend Society, and delivered his parting address to 
his Christian friends. 

Mr. Abeel and his fellow-missionary, Mr. Bridg- 
man, sailed for China in the ship Roman, Captain 
Lavender, on Wednesday the 14th of October, 1829. 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 53 

After weighing anchor, the Roman had not pro- 
ceeded far below the Hook when she was becalmed, 
and was obliged to remain there two days. These 
were days of severe trial to those who had left their 
all, and whose feelings of affection were revived and 
quickened by this continued view of their native 
land. Mr. Abeel notices it with deep feeling: — 

" After our friends left us, we weighed anchor and 
endeavored to get to sea ; but the wind was so light 
and adverse, and the opposing current so strong, 
that w r e found ourselves at evening but a few miles 
below the city, and we were obliged once more to 
anchor. The next morning we took an early start, 
but again we were prevented from reaching the 
wide ocean ; and after making many fruitless at- 
tempts to proceed, were compelled, from our situa- 
tion, to run back some distance and w r ait the approach 
of a new day. Thus, for two days we were lying in 
sight of the harbor of the city, which contained at 
that time the majority of our immediate family. 
Many tender thoughts passed my mind, and awak- 
ened, while they lingered, a host of sensibilities. I 
thought most of all of my aged parents — -the feelings 
which this step had aroused in their bosoms — the 
conflict of restrained tenderness and resignation to 
the will of God — the many anxious fears which dis- 
tance and time, connected with the great infrequency 
of receiving information, shall produce — and chiefly 
the uncertainty of meeting again this side the eter- 
nal world. These, and many more of the same 
character, would obtrude their frequent visits, and 
for a season fill me with sorrow. But I have reason 



54 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

I 

to bless God that, in the sense of the Apostle, none 
of these things moved me. My determinations, my 
engagements, my prospects, all the steps which I had 
taken, were approved to my reason and conscience ; 
and, though flesh and blood revolted, I had strength 
imparted to rebuke these unchristian emotions, and 
to thank God for counting me in the least worthy 
of this distinguishing honor. Long have I desired 
to be an instrument of more than ordinary good in 
the kingdom of my Lord ; and though I had but little 
expectation of such an arrangement, on account of 
my unfitness for the work, yet, since my prayer has 
been answered, I have cause for the strongest grati- 
tude." 

Thus faith conquered, and enabled him to rise 
above these feelings of tenderness. After they had 
succeeded in clearing the land, he sent back by the 
pilot a letter to his parents, full of expressions of 
hope, and even of cheerfulness. 

"October 15th, 1829. 

" Dear Friends, — About daylight, we got under 
way and proceeded as far as the Narrows ; when the 
tide being against us, and the wind too light to stem 
it, we again anchored. Now I hear the cry of the 
sailors, and perceive that they are once more weigh- 
ing anchor, and spreading the canvas. If the wind 
'breezes up,' we will soon lose sight of the shores 
of happy America, and probably see land again only 
when we make our destined port. You may be sur- 
prised to learn that my spirits have recovered their 
wonted elasticity, and that I feel happy. I rejoice 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 55 

in the Providence which has opened this door ; and 
believe, with all the painfulness of leaving friends 
and country, it will redound to my everlasting wel- 
fare and the glory of God. I do not feel as though 
/ should say a word against the leadings of Provi- 
dence ; for of all the passengers, it is doubtful whether 
any will return in years if they can find employment. 
One goes to seek business for the support of himself, 
his widowed mother and sister, and feels happy, w T ith 
this motive, to submit to the separation of many years 
from these dear relatives. Why, then, should I com- 
plain ? Why should I not rather rejoice ? Only con- 
sider the object which takes me away from home, and 
all the connected circumstances, and you will find 
much cause for gratitude, and none for despondency. 
Again I would assure you that I am happy. Though 
slowly losing sight of one object after another, I am 
cheerful, and far from regretting my choice, because 
I feel that I have only yielded to the plainest indi- 
cations of duty. 

" This ship is so much larger and more comforta- 
ble than any vessel which has ever borne me above 
the waves, that I anticipate but few of the horrors 
of the sea. My great desire is, that God would pour 
out his Spirit upon the souls of those on board, and 
grant us a refreshing from his presence ; but my 
strongest desire is, that every one of your number 
may improve this providence, and become the living 
members of Jesus, the living Head. May his bless- 
ing rest upon you all, and his grace adorn your spir- 
its. I hope you will not be unhappy on my account. 



56 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

I am in the hands of my Father, and he shall be 
' my confidence ' when ' afar off upon the sea.' 

" Yours, most affectionately, D." 

The vessel in which he sailed, was fitted with 
suitable accommodations even for an invalid ; and he 
enjoyed the society of those who were passengers 
with him in his voyage. His health during the 
greater part of the time was exceedingly delicate ; 
and when in the region of the Cape of Good Hope, he 
hardly knew whether to proceed, or to land and take 
some return vessel. He feared, lest having arrived 
at China, he should only be a burden to the cause of 
his Master, and unable to perform the work assigned 
him. He thus describes his feelings : — 

"December 17, 1829. — Never have I experienced 
such a trial of my faith, and never have I had more 
reason for gratitude, than since I left my native 
land. Whether it be necessary to stop, or dutiful 
to continue, — whether, if my health demands a 
speedy change to other scenes and habits, w r e shall 
be so fortunate as to meet a vessel bound to the 
Cape, or some adjacent port, (as it is deemed im- 
proper for the ship to stop), — whether, if I proceed 
1 shall ever reach the port of destination, — whether 
I shall recover, and attend to my official duties should 
I arrive, without the exercise which has proved ne- 
cessary in times past, and which cannot be enjoyed 
at Canton — in fact whether I shall live or die, or 
labor or remain inactive, or continue at Canton, or 
be obliged to leave it, or remain from home or re- 
turn, are all matters of extreme uncertainty ; and 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 57 

all demand the exercise of strong confidence in the 
Lord. It has grieved me to find an undue anxiety 
on the subject, while I pondered on the future. I 
have been able to mourn over the least restlessness 
of spirit which I have detected ; and, in faith, to com- 
mit my way unto the Lord. Lately my mind is 
composed, and my heart gladdened at the kind care 
of my covenant God. Long have I discovered 
what I thought a determination to save me, and the 
conclusion is strengthened by the present dispensa- 
tion. I am obliged to rebuke those thoughts of 
home, and comfort, and friends, which may never 
again be enjoyed ; and look with a steady eye to 
the Lord. His grace has proved abundantly suffi- 
cient for me, and his strength has been made perfect 
in my weakness. I find great pleasure in casting 
all my care upon him, in contemplating his perfect 
government, and in studying his holy word. My 
attention is given alm6st exclusively to the cultiva- 
tion of vital godliness. My disease has not inca- 
pacitated my mind for calm reflection, except in a 
few instances. I think I can kiss the rod that smites 
me, and rejoice in the hope of the glory of God. 
My anxiety is to reach Canton, if it be the Lord's 
will." 

But with the advice of his fellow-missionary, Mr. 
Bridgeman, which fully accorded with his own views 
of duty, he determined to persevere. He now re- 
viewed his course, unswayed by excitement, and felt 
that he had obeyed the call of his Master, in devot- 
ing himself to his service. He says, " Thus far I 
have reason to thank God for that unexpected dis- 

3* 



58 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

pensation of his providence, which has separated 
me from all that is dear in life, and turned my face 
towards regions of darkness and death. If I am 
not deceiving myself, I enjoy much of his delightful 
presence and communion. Here I can take a calm 
and impartial retrospect of the past. Removed from 
the distracting bustle of the world, I can enter the 
recesses of my own heart, investigate its motives, 
watch its operations, and, by the grace of God, 
mortify its evil propensities, and cherish its gracious 
principles. Undeceived by the vivid, though unreal 
pictures of a heated imagination, I can look forward 
through the medium of reason and religion, to the 
great work, in which I am about to engage ; and 
with which so many wild vagaries of fancy are con- 
nected, in the mind of the youthful missionary. I 
have never been so deeply impressed with the mag- 
nitude of any undertaking in which I have ever 
been engaged, as at present. I have seen enough ; 
to fasten upon my mind a conviction of the diffi- 
culty of laboring among nominal Christians in hea- 
then lands. Their only object is wealth ; and with 
no higher principle of action than this, alas ! they 
deem no conduct inadmissible. But the greatest 
difficulty opposes the introduction of the Gospel in 
China. Faintheartedness and presumption, carnal 
ease and popular applause, with every other unhal- 
lowed motive and feeling, must be sacrificed. My 
only object is the glory of God in the salvation of 
the heathen ; and if anything which I can accom- 
plish or suffer, though most abhorrent to flesh and 
blood, can secure this end, the path of duty and 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 59 

happiness is plain. My constant prayer is, that I 
may have grace to go where duty calls me, and to 
suffer what it bids me. Oh! that I may be pre- 
pared for every trial of toil and suffering ; and, if ne- 
cessary, for death. I wish my mind brought to a 
perfect willingness never again to mingle in scenes 
of my greatest earthly pleasure ; and, if it be re- 
quired, to spend my days where no improper motive 
could lead or keep me. And yet, if I knew my 
heart, I should probably find a hidden expectation 
of contending with no serious difficulties, and of 
soon revisiting the land of my fathers. Something 
supports me in the undertaking, and it scarcely re- 
quires even as partial an acquaintance as I have with 
my heart, to regard with jealousy and distrust its 
deeply concealed operations. Yet, with all my sus- 
picions of its treachery and deceitfulness, as far as I 
am able to determine, I have not embarked in this 
project without deliberation, advice, and prayer. I 
am not conscious of the operation of any principle 
as the impulse of my conduct, which will not stand 
the test of the judgment ; and yet, while inditing 
this sentiment, I turn to the idea of unconsciousness 
as my refuge, for I believe I am at times actuated 
by motives, of whose existence I have no suspicion. 
One thing comforts me. In a previous scheme of 
missionary labor, God in mercy disappointed me, 
although I had engaged myself to an association for 
this purpose. This strengthened my confidence in 
committing the determination of the subject into 
his hands. Another consolatory reflection is, that it 
did not depend entirely upon my decision ; for even 



60 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

after I had come to a conclusion, under the impres- 
sion that it rested exclusively with me, the expe- 
dience of sending two missionaries was submitted 
to the judgment of those Christians, who were most 
familiar with the subject. The consultation of the 
first meeting left the matter in such a state, that I 
felt as though the wisdom of my Heavenly Father 
might again change my expected course. I felt happy 
that He vouchsafed such convincing evidences of 
overruling and directing the deliberations of His peo- 
ple in my behalf; and confident that if I 'committed 
my way to the Lord, he would direct my paths.' 
My constant prayer was, ' Thy will be done ;' and 
when the practicability of sending two missionaries 
to engage at first in behalf of the different societies 
was decided, I could not but regard it as the expres- 
sion of my Father's good pleasure. So that while 
1 distrust my own heart, I think I have another 
source of support and comfort, to which to flee — 
the prayerful deliberations of unprejudiced Chris- 
tians/' 

It should be distinctly understood, that Mr. Abeel 
sailed to China under the commission of the Sea- 
man's Friend Society, which was limited, and taken 
by him with the ulterior object of being transferred 
to the care of the Am. B. of Commissioners. He 
freely officiated as chaplain during his passage to 
China. His soul was filled with anxiety in behalf 
of those who were with him in the vessel. " There 
is one subject," he wrote, " which for a few days 
past has affected my mind with unusual anxiety, — 
the spiritual benefit of those on ship-board. It w r as 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 61 

my hope that much would have been effected in 
their behalf, and that the fruits of my labors among 
seamen would have appeared before we reached 
the port of destination. Since we embarked, this 
solicitude has been increased by the circumstances 
and prospects of some of the young men who go out 
as our fellow-passengers. In the way of public or 
private exertion, little has been done. Thus far we 
have been prevented from public exercises on the 
Sabbath, by indisposition and unfavorable weather. 
To-morrow that sacred day returns, and I hope that 
our labors may then commence. I feel under many 
restraints, from what has been expressed by those 
who are placed in authority. I did hope to have 
free access to the sailors at all times, but this is 
thought an infringement of the system of subordi- 
nation which is deemed necessary in a ship. I am 
happy that there is so much time intervening be- 
tween the present and the termination of our pas- 
sage ; not that J have any predilection to a sea life, 
but that I cannot endure the thought of leaving the 
ship, without the conversion of the immortals which* 
it carries ; or at least, without relieving my con- 
science of the burden of neglected duty. Baxter's 
Reformed Pastor, which I have been reading, has 
filled my soul with sorrow for past unfaithfulness, 
and revived the impression that, what your hand 
findeth to do must be done with your might. Yes- 
terday, I looked over my instructions from the com- 
mittee of the American Seaman's Friend Society. 
It appears to me, that I have attempted a work 



62 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

which demands more zeal and energy than I have 
ever yet evinced." 

Services were held regularly on the Roman, ex- 
cept when interrupted on account of the weather, as 
will be seen by this extract from his diary. 

"Sabbath, November 1, 1829. — The most delight- 
ful day since we left our native land. Wind and 
weather favorable. Sick, (from the motion of the 
vessel,) but much improved ; and what is far more 
important, public worship celebrated. This morn- 
ing our cabin was consecrated to the service of the 
living God. It was thought the most appropriate 
place in the ship. While it is sufficiently large to 
admit all our number, it is so confined as to prevent 
them from gazing at distant objects, and indulging 
in improper conduct. The behavior of those pres- 
ent was becoming — their attention riveted. They 
were addressed familiarly on the talents which had 
been intrusted to them — the obligations under which 
they are placed — the judgment to which they are 
destined — and the consequences of profitably em- 
ploying, or criminally neglecting their advantages. 
In the afternoon, conversed with some of the young 
men on the importance of personal religion. It 
was gratifying to see the sailors perusing tracts af- 
ter service ; while in some instances, others would 
be looking over their shoulders, either reading or 
listening, and spelling." 

" November 20. — This afternoon I summoned up 
resolution, and made a visit in the forecastle. I did 
apprehend harsh treatment from some who have 
openly and unblushingly blasphemed the name of 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 63 

God in my presence. One of them has been indis- 
posed for some time, and I conceived it a favorable 
opportunity of conversing with him on the great 
subject which he neglected in health, and to which 
God's afflictive hand, in an especial manner, directed 
his attention. As I entered his apartment, my ears 
were assailed with oaths ; and instead of finding the 
sick man in a serious mood, I soon ascertained that 
they proceeded from his lips. Pale, emaciated, and 
enfeebled by disease, I was shocked at his insensi- 
bility and hardihood, and immediately endeavored 
to convince him of his guilt and danger. I re- 
mained probably an hour conversing with him ; 
and intentionally, though without a direct refer- 
ence, to those who mingled with us. Silence, and 
as far as I can judge, a conviction of the truth, 
were the consequence. It has doubtless produced 
a good effect; for, though it may never have a 
sanctifying influence on the mind, it has opened a 
door of labor, and emboldened me to enter. To 
enlist the kind feelings of his heart, I sent him some 
of my private stores." 

" November 30. — Yesterday we enjoyed our estab- 
lished privilege of morning and afternoon service. 
The crew were generally present, and especially in 
the afternoon. Never, since we commenced preach- 
ing, did I witness such fixed attention ; and never, 
since we sailed, has the Sabbath been so well ob- 
served. Silence, and more suitable engagements, 
took the place of much unprofitable conversation ; 
although, alas ! there are many things still to be de- 
plored. To-day I received a note from one of the 



64 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

sailors, desiring an interview, with a special refer- 
ence to religious information. As it bore the ev- 
ident marks of sincerity, it afforded more pleasure 
than any object my eyes had seen during the pas- 
sage. In the evening, I saw the young man by 
whom it was signed, walking the decks alone. 
When he saw me approaching, he waited ; and 
when I addressed him, unhesitatingly entered into 
conversation. He mentioned that his attention had 
been previously directed to religion, by a tract 
which he read during the last voyage ; but as he 
could find none disposed to converse on serious 
subjects, but on the other hand, as there was a dis- 
position prevalent among them to ridicule religion, 
and deride its adherents, he became indifferent to 
his best interests ; and on his return, yielded to 
the temptations which beset the homeless mariner. 
Within the last week his convictions have revived. 
He feels the necessity of religion, but finds his heart 
a stone. He inquired with anxiety, whether there 
was a class of human beings for whom there was 
no salvation. His sins, and particularly the aggra- 
vated guilt of resisting the Holy Spirit, and stifling 
strong convictions, probably suggested the idea." 

" These are the principal facts recorded on the 
way. The sick man of whom I have spoken, re- 
covered, after affording many an opportunity of 
visiting the forecastle, and conversing with the sail- 
ors. Though he gave no evidence of regeneration, 
he was punctual in his attendance on the means of 
grace, and by no means backward in reproving his 
shipmates of sins, which, I understood, he had not 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 65 

altogether renounced. The young man who ad- 
dressed the note to me continued serious ; and sub- 
sequently gave the clearest evidences of piety of any 
of our number ; I speak comparatively, for ' the 
time' to judge has not yet arrived ; and I know not 
how he will appear without the excitement of the 
means which were enjoyed. He was probably the 
subject of more conversation than any of his com- 
panions. Some scoffed, others justified ; those who 
appeared to me the most unpromising when we em- 
barked, became his advocates ; and though uncon- 
verted themselves, were so far convinced of the pro- 
priety of such conduct, as to avow their sentiments, 
and rebuke the ungodly caviller. I took the oppor- 
tunity of private conversation with the majority of 
them, and should have had more frequent interviews 
had the state of my health permitted ; the effect was 
evident in the immediate seriousness produced, as 
well as in their subsequent conduct." 

The voyage passed on rapidly, during which time 
his spirits often declined and rallied, being very 
much influenced by his physical state. As he came 
near to the lands of heathenism, his heart was filled 
with strong desires for their spiritual welfare. The 
ensuing letter was written at this time. 

" A few more days, under ordinary circumstan- 
ces, will bring us safely to our destination ; and as 
no homeward bound vessel has greeted our eyes 
thus far, I have determined to take time by the fore- 
lock, and be prepared, should an opportunity occur, 
immediately upon our arrival. Since we lost sight 
of our native land, many days have elapsed, and not 



66 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEITL. 

until we had enjoyed the prospect of sky and water 
for nearly three months, did w r e catch a glimpse of 
what might be termed land ; and even that, by 
strict propriety of speech, could scarcely be called 
' terra firma, for it has frequently trembled to its 
base under the action of volcanic fires. Since that 
time, one island has arisen in the prospect after 
another, until we have stretched beyond the Indian 
Archipelago, and gained the wide expanse of the 
Pacific Ocean. 

" While sailing so near the habitations of these 
pitiable heathen, my mind, (as is naturally the case,) 
has been filled with projects, or rather imaginations, 
for their conversion. Millions inhabit these islands f 
who, so far from possessing any correct ideas of 
religion, are represented in some cases, as but little 
superior to the brute creation. And yet these are 
immortal, accountable beings, subject to the same 
general law of mortality as Christian nations, and 
with no other preparatory state but the present ex- 
istence. It is a consolatory reflection that God will 
deal justly with them ; but we all know that the 
Gospel is necessary to faith, and faith to salvation. 
The greatest barrier to the introduction of Chris- 
tianity in these numerous and thickly populated 
islands, lies in the heart of Christians. Worldly 
enterprise with equal advantages, would conquer 
these difficulties ; and if wealth was the object, and 
the Gospel the means of obtaining it, men would 
weep with the ancient hero, that there were no 
more islands of the sea to evangelize. I should de- 
light to have those persons who are ever objecting 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 67 

to Foreign Missions, visit some of these regions of 
mental and spiritual darkness ; and learn from ob- 
servation whether the necessities of our own land, 
which they think should engross the attention, and 
limit the efforts of Christians, are to be compared to 
the condition of those who have never heard of a 
Savior, and possess no means of information. It 
is true, that our own country should be supplied 
with the Gospel, and the living teacher ; but, while 
this should be done, certainly the other should not 
be left undone." 

Thus every new sight touched his heart with sad- 
ness, in view of the destitute and guilty condition 
of the poor heathen ; and strengthened his resolu- 
tion to serve them. He reached Canton, February 
25, 1830. His diary contains this record of his first 
impressions. 

" On heathen lands, surrounded by millions who 
worship stocks and stones, who are more ignorant 
and more fully stupid on the first principles of natu- 
ral religion than I believed possible — whose minds 
are so warped by error, or unaccustomed to truth, 
that it is with difficulty you can communicate a 
just sentiment. Pitiable, miserable beings! I can 
scarcely reconcile the idea to my mind, that the 
persons whom 1 daily see. are the pagans of whom 
I have thought, and read, and heard so much ; and 
for whom I have joined God's people in so many peti- 
tions. ' Bone of our bone, and flesh of our flesh/ with 
features, actions, intellect, feelings like our own — so 
similar that they remind me of my Christian friends, 
whom they resemble, and yet in gross darkness. 



68 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

Having no God — without a knowledge of the blessed 
Redeemer, though under the same necessity of 
knowledge with Christians — bound to the same eter- 
nal destiny, w r ith no other season of preparation 
than the present — withering under the same infirm- 
ities, and daily dropping in the grave. My heart 
melts with tenderness at the thought of them ; but 
I know not their language, neither will my other 
arrangements allow its present acquisition ; and 
even if I were sufficiently acquainted with it, I could 
only work interruptedly and silently." 

On their arrival, he and his companion, Mr. Bridg- 
man, were kindly welcomed by the residents of Can- 
ton, and especially by Dr. Morrison. " On Thurs- 
day we reached our destination, and were most 
kindly received by C. N. Talbot, Esq., the consular 
agent, whose father and brother had been our fellow 
passengers, and to whose hospitality we were com- 
mended by our friends in America. Upon learning 
our arrival, we were visited by Dr. Morrison ; who, 
as might be expected, welcomed fellow-missionaries 
into this long neglected field with no ordinary joy. 
A career of more than two-and-twenty years' labor, 
under the many embarrassments and trials which 
were experienced, especially at first — without the 
permanent assistance of a single companion — and 
particularly after the sentence of death begins to be 
felt in a body shattered by toil and anxieties — might 
be supposed a sufficient preparative to the welcome 
reception of those whose avowed object is the same, 
and who are expected to find their highest interest 
in its promotion. From many of the residents, and 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 69 

especially from those of our own countrymen, to 
whom we had letters, we soon enjoyed all those 
polite and kind attentions which are calculated to 
reconcile a stranger to an abode in foreign parts." 

With his characteristic energy Mr. Abeel com- 
menced his labors as seamen's chaplain. There 
occurred many interesting incidents in the course 
of his duties, some of which are recorded in the fol- 
lowing extracts from his journal. He writes, — 
" Before and since the absence of my fellow-labor- 
ers, applications were made to hold service on board 
the few vessels in port ; but the haste to discharge 
and reload was more powerful in its influence than 
the desire to * lay up treasures in heaven/ My of- 
fers were received with much politeness — the laud- 
able object highly appreciated — the kindest wishes 
expressed — but from some cause, perhaps as un- 
pleasant to the officers of these vessels as to us, no 
arrangements were made ; and of course, nothing 
was effected. This is by no means unexpected, 
neither is there any reason to believe there will be 
the same obstacles after divine worship is regularly 
established at the place. 

u Early in the summer, a sailor from one of the 
ships had his limb fractured, and was brought to 
Canton for surgical attendance. His escape from 
death appeared miraculous. He fell from a great 
elevation, struck the rigging, was turned from his 
perpendicular descent, and thrown into one of the 
* tops/ This marked interposition of an overruling 
power produced no impression of gratitude or re- 
pentance. He was attended by a companion who 



70 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

had been educated in one of the Lutheran churches 
in Germany, was circumspect in his deportment, 
but by no means satisfactory in the evidences he 
gave of Christian character. He had possessed a 
Bible, but a mischievous monkey had destroyed it. 
They were each furnished with the word of God by 
us, and with such books as were deemed most appli- 
cable. It was not long before the mind of the Ger- 
man received such an impression from the truth, as 
favored the conclusion, that if he was previously 
converted, he had been aroused from a deep slum- 
ber ; and, if not, had now experienced ' the grace 
that bringeth salvation.' He evinced a deep inter- 
est in behalf of his shipmate — deplored his stupidity 
— endeavored to arouse his slumbering conscience 
by exhortation and reading — and kneeling at his bed- 
side, besought the gracious interposition of Almighty 
power. 

" His efforts were not without effect. At times 
the invalid appeared to realize all the horrors of the 
most hopeless condition, in the associations of a sea- 
man. One morning he told me, with the tear trem- 
bling in his eye, ' John has made me feel that I am 
on a lee-shore.' But, alas ! to retain his own figure, 
he soon imagined himself off again, and with sea- 
room enough to apprehend no danger from the gath- 
ering storm. After an absence of three weeks at 
Macao, I found his health improved, but his heart 
unchanged. His praying companion had resigned 
his office to a youth, whose slender frame had been 
reduced by the corrosion of a lingering fever, and 
required the regular attendance of a physician. He 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 71 

had the most partial and incorrect ideas of religion, 
and had mistaken himself for a Christian, and sup- 
posed that he had always been prepared to die. 

" One of the works put into the hands of the elder, 
was Baxter's Call ; which, upon inquiry, he acknowl- 
edged had been consigned to the shelf, because its 
truths were too pungent for his conscience. He 
was urged so strenuously to its serious and prayer- 
ful perusal, that he engaged to recommence it with- 
out delay. About this period, the indifference of 
the one and the ignorance of the other appeared to 
yield simultaneously to convictions of guilt and dan- 
ger ; and, after a severe struggle through anxious 
days and sleepless nights, the elder gave all those 
evidences of a renovation of mind which generally 
result from this operation of God's Spirit. 

" Two months have since elapsed ; and the revo- 
lution and correctness of sentiment — the firmness 
of purpose — the humility, resignation, love, and sin- 
cere devotion of spirit, the fruits of which his cir- 
cumstances have elicited — afford very satisfactory 
evidence, and make even the ungodly and sceptical 
ascribe the work to its legitimate cause. 

" Concerning the other, there is reason to fear he 
remains in 'the bond of iniquity.' The utmost 
caution has been necessary, to prevent the cry of 
* peace, when there is no peace.' His views are 
daily enlarging; but, though his knowledge precludes 
the same danger of delusion to which his peculiar 
constitution of mind, shrouded in previous ignor- 
ance, exposed him, he appears yet destitute of such 



72 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

a sense of depravity and helplessness as drives the 
sinner to his last, but only safe retreat." 

In one of his communications to the Society, he 
gives the following hints in reference to the true way 
of conversing with the sailor on subjects of religious 
interest : — 

" Conversed with some of the seamen, and was 
met with an excuse to which many have recourse, 
when reminded of their guilt and danger — that a 
sailor's life, being so peculiarly exposed to hardships 
and temptations, God will overlook their iniquities, 
and lay no additional sufferings upon them in a fu- 
ture world. It requires but a few words to convince 
them of the inefficacy of such a palliative, and make 
them admit, with their characteristic candor, that 
there is no necessity of being as bad as they are, 
and that on land they are no better than at sea. 
When they find themselves obliged to let go this 
hold, there is another at hand at which I have found 
the majority of sailors to grasp, and to which they 
cling, without taking the trouble to look whether 
they are safe or not. This is the absurd system of 
fatality, if it merits the name of system ; which, in 
their belief, answers almost every question, though 
in fact they can scarcely make it apply to a single 
one. Talk to them of the general uncertainty of 
life — of their constant exposure to death — of the un- 
expected and alarming providences they frequently 
witness — and to all they make the old, foolish, and 
worn-out reply : ' You can't die before your time 
comes/ But suppose your time should come while 
you are cursing God's name or breaking his laws, 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 73 

will it be any benefit to know that your time had 
then come ? — that you could not have died before, or 
lived beyond this period? Is it the right of any 
man to determine how long he shall live, and when 
die ? And if not, does his ignorance on these points 
entitle him to a general license for sinning ? Is it 
not his duty, and the express command of God, to 
be always ready ? Beyond this they often become 
serious, at least in appearance and conversation, and 
are prepared for such exhortations as are calculated 
to impress the mind with religious conviction. The 
wide prevalence of such sentiments is the reason 
why I have detailed the conversation. It may not 
be improper to mention the absolute necessity of 
fearlessness in those who desire to benefit this class 
of men. That cautious reserve, and those prudent 
preliminaries, which are unquestionably expedient in 
introducing topics of religion to many, are, with 
perhaps a few exceptions, superfluous, and even 
injudicious, in conversing with ordinary seamen. 
Level the separating wall which their imagination 
has raised between you. Show them that you are 
a man like themselves, and that they are under ob- 
ligations to be as you are, except your bonds ; and 
you will find that the appearance of candor, sin- 
cerity, and a deep interest in their eternal welfare, 
will produce as much effect upon the weather-beaten 
tar as on the common class of landsmen/' 

After a course of successful labor, he closed his 
engagement with the Seaman's Friend Society, 
December 20th, 1830, and was transferred to the 

4 



74 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

care of the American Board of Commissioners for 
Foreign Missions. 

During this time his religious feelings were ac- 
quiring greater solidity, and his piety becoming more 
elevated. The following extracts from his private 
diary will serve to show his growth in grace ; and, at 
the same time his increasing distrust of his own evil 
heart, and desire to be actuated entirely by the holiest 
and most unselfish motives in his duty. The high 
tone of his piety was produced by wrestling with 
God day by day, and by striving earnestly to reach 
forward to new attainments, like St. Paul, " pressing 
toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of 
God in Christ Jesus." 

"June 13, 1830,-^Wandering thoughts in prayer, 
particularly in joining with others, with a want of 
general solemnity and concentration of heart and 
mind in spiritual things, render me odious in my own 
eyes ; how much more offensive to a holy God. 
Occasionally I am strengthened to wrestle ; but the 
fervor is but momentary, and the chill of death suc- 
ceeds. I suppose my proud heart would never be 
abased, if God did not leave me to myself; but the 
discipline is exceedingly painful. May none of the 
purposes of his grace be defeated. I think I have 
been assisted to gain the advantage in a number of 
struggles over my unyielding, impatient spirit. The 
passive virtues of the Saviour's character I greatly 
admire, and wish never to contradict or be excited 
by contradiction, when merely my own honor, and 
not his glory, is concerned. The idea of living and 
dying in a heathen land, gathers force every day. I 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 75 

wait upon the Lord to know his will. Yesterday I 
completed my twenty-sixth year. I have evidence 
of growth in grace for which I am thankful, and pray 
that I may be more holy and devoted in future 
May God awake me from my present torpor. 

"June 20, 1830. — The passage, 'For God, who 
commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath 
shined in our hearts, to give the light of the knowl- 
edge of the glory of God, in the face of Jesus Christ/ 
has been again the subject of awakening and profit- 
able reflection. The glory of God is the greatest 
object which can engross the attention of intelligent 
beings. In its promotion, Jehovah, in all the per- 
sons and attributes of the Godhead, is constantly 
engaged. Every angelic and redeemed spirit in 
heaven — all the holy beings in the universe — give 
not a moment's attention to any other purpose. Ev- 
ery event of Providence in the natural and moral 
world, throughout all the realms of universal do- 
minion, is produced or controlled with this simple end. 
Even the permitted rebellion and everlasting ruin of 
myriads from heaven and earth, finds an adequate 
principle of interpretation here. Now this glory 
shines conspicuously in the face of Jesus Christ ; in 
other words, the redemption of Jesus is pre-emi- 
nently calculated to display and promote the glory 
of God. It was ' the light of the knowledge/ or a 
clear discovery ' of the glory of God, in the face/ — 
connected with the redemption of Jesus Christ — - 
which so deeply affected the Apostle's mind. He 
had been appointed to the ' ministry of reconcilia- 
tion/ the great means by which the work of Jesus — 



76 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

the glory of God — is displayed on earth. A flood of 
light was shed into his mind. He felt the obligations 
that bound him to his Savior's work ; he saw the 
connection between that work, and the glory of God. 
He knew that his daily efforts had a direct and most 
powerful bearing upon the great aim and highest 
enjoyment of all holy beings — upon the exaltation 
of the Savior — the greatest honor of Jehovah 
Himself in the estimation of his creatures. This 
discovery was overwhelming ; and, as his conduct 
proves, continued most energizing to the close of his 
career. Everything else sunk in utter insignifi- 
cance. Trials and troubles were overlooked, ' they 
could not faint.' Every unlawful, every inferior 
object, was renounced. Even self, with its many 
and artful solicitations, was forgotten. He was 
bound, as by a mighty spell — bound to 'Christ 
Jesus the Lord,' and to the service of every one ' for 
Jesus' sake.' Oh blessed influence, and blessed 
Spirit that produces it. I thank the Lord for the 
application of this subject to my mind. I know not 
that any passage has ever awakened me so much 
to the infinite results of the ministry, as this. In 
dreams of earthly comfort, it has acted like a charm. 
What am I, what those trifles which have wasted so 
many of my thoughts and hours ? What the posses- 
sion of all honors and the world itself, to the glory 
of my God — the results of my ministry?" 

"July 18. — Nothing of importance during the 
past week. Greatly disturbed with the workings 
of an aspiring heart, and a vain imagination. To- 
day my thoughts have been much fixed upon the 






MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 77 

overwhelming interests of the Redeemer's kingdom. 
May God sanctify this consideration to the destruc- 
tion of every selfish motive. When I reflect upon 
the plans of God's wisdom and benevolence, and 
remember that in nothing these attributes are so 
strikingly displayed as in that kingdom in which I 
am engaged, and especially, when I think of the 
obligations resulting from the Savior's sufferings 
and death, I feel like forgetting self forever, and 
rising superior to everything but my Master's plea- 
sure. Alas ! that I should so soon forget these im- 
pressions." 

"August 16. — Was awaked last night by a se- 
vere dash of rain ; mistook it for a typhoon, and en- 
joyed a delightful confidence in my Savior's love. 
Oh how inestimably precious religion appears in the 
hour of danger." 

For a time during his residence in Canton, Mr. 
Abeel suffered much from depression of spirits, 
doubtless produced by the state of his health, which 
deeply affected his religious enjoyments. He 
mourned over his apathy and indifference. He 
longed for those heights of enjoyment which he had 
been before permitted to ascend. He fasted and 
prayed that the root of bitterness might be removed. 
But he continued to labor with all his accustomed 
energy, and his soul breathed the same holy desires 
to spend and be spent in the Master's service. He 
was soon relieved from this depression ; yet, it was 
his lot, like all the children of God, to walk in dark- 
ness as well as in light. He now devoted " one 
day in the week exclusively to personal religion." 



78 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

His seasons of private devotion were observed with 
the greatest care, for he sought and found all his 
strength at the mercy-seat. He also framed a re- 
ligious guide or vade mecum, which he used for his 
assistance in the important duties of meditation and 
self-examination. He thus speaks of it. 

" I have drawn up a number of rules to be care- 
fully pondered every morning, as a preparation for 
the day ; and inquiries for the evening, relative to 
the manner in which it was spent. Such a system 
I regard as highly useful, both as a restraint, and 
incentive to the mind, and a means of ascertaining 
and improving its operations." 

This vade mecum will be found in the appendix 
to this work. 



CHAPTER V. 

The time had now arrived, when in obedience to 
his instructions, Mr. Abeel was called to leave Can- 
ton ; and proceed under the patronage of the Amer- 
ican Board of Missions, to make an exploring tour 
to Java, Malacca, Siam, and the islands adjacent to 
Eastern Asia. His object was to obtain informa- 
tion in reference to the religious condition and 
wants of the different islands, and the practicability 
of establishing missions among them. 

The following letter, written a few days before 
his departure from Canton, shows the course of his 
proposed tour. It was sent to his parents, for the 
purpose of calming the fears which they entertained 
in regard to his health, in view of his visiting those 
islands where sickness and death had wrought such 
devastation among the foreign residents. 

" Canton, Dec. 24, 1830. 

" As we expect to sail on the 27th of the present 
month, rather sooner than was anticipated when I 
last wrote, this is probably my last letter from Can- 
ton. I believe I mentioned that a passage had been 
offered, and, as far as then could be determined, I 
expected to accept it. Since that, I have been 



80 MEMOTR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

endeavoring to obtain a passage in a French vessel 
of war which visits Cochin China, and some of the 
islands ; but the captain cannot possibly take me, 
* because all the space which could be appropriated 
to passengers has been pre-engaged by Catholic mis- 
sionaries/ — I suppose in truth, because I am a her- 
etic, employed in scattering the seeds of heresy. 
The name of the ship in which I sail, (if I have not 
already mentioned it,) is the Castle Huntley, Capt. 
Drummond — an elegant vessel, well manned and 
armed ; and with a crew of perhaps one hundred 
and thirty or one hundred and forty men. What a 
fine congregation for the short time I am in her. 
My ultimate destination is Siam, but I will be 
obliged to go by an indirect route ; which, as I 
should like to visit some of the Dutch islands, will 
probably afford an opportunity. 'But don't visit 
Batavia,' I hear you say. If I was an imprudent 
sailor, or if I expected to live in the town, the ad- 
vice would be necessary; but your apprehensions 
should subside, when you learn, that if I go near it, 
as I probably shall, I neither expect to approach it 
by sea, nor spend a single night in the town. The 
Dutch consul here, informed me a short time since, 
that they have been clearing out the canals, and 
opening a communication to the sea ; so that every 
tide admits the pure element, and of course carries 
off the offensive substances. Besides this, the Dutch 
have left their sickly location, and moved out of the 
town ; and an American gentleman who came from 
there recently, mentions that he does not remember 
to have seen a burial during a visit of six weeks. It 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 81 

is generally among the shipping and in the camp, 
where sailors and soldiers reckless of danger expose 
themselves to the damps of the night, or fever their 
bodies by large draughts of spirituous liquors, that 
disease and death are so prevalent. I expect to pro- 
ceed as far as Angier, on the Island of Java — about 
sixty miles from Batavia, in the Castle Huntley. 
From that place I shall probably cross over to the 
residence of some of the missionaries, who have 
been living many years in the country, out of the 

limits of w T hat G terms ' The Golgotha of the 

East/ When I shall leave that place, and whither 
proceed, must be determined in future. Pray dis- 
miss your fears about my welfare. I am in the 
hands of One who is more interested in my happi- 
ness than all of you ; and who will protect me from 
all dangers, until He sees proper to remove me be- 
yond their influence. What more could you desire, 
if you really desire my best interest ? Oh, how we 
mistake on these points. We can trust our senses 
farther than our God; and every calculation we 
attempt, proceeds on the unwarranted principle that 
the continuance of mortal life is more desirable than 
the enjoyment of heavenly perfection and bliss. We 
can ask no more — we can possibly desire nothing 
so much — as to meet in the presence of God ; and 
spend an eternity in admiring and praising the ex- 
ceeding compassion and grace of Him who has re- 
deemed us with His own blood, and made us kings 
and priests unto God ! Though I should be, as you 
may suppose, delighted to meet you all again on 
earth, it appears a matter of the least importance, 

4* 



82 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

if we dwell together forever. I leave Canton with 
some regret. I believe there are some sincere 
friends whom I leave. I go with many good let- 
ters, and to Christian friends who know of my 
coming." 

At midnight December 25th, he left Canton, and 
reached the English ship Castle Huntley, whose 
chief officer, Capt. Drummond, was a fervent Chris- 
tian ; and had offered him a gratuitous passage to 
Java. In his diary he reviews his labors at Canton 
as follows. 

u December 29, 1830. — Another season and scene 
of ministerial labor have closed. I have great rea- 
son for gratitude for the unexpected and multiplied 
blessings enjoyed during my residence here. I 
came a stranger, and the Lord graciously inclined 
them to take me in. As it regards temporal mer- 
cies, every want has been supplied. Not a fear has 
been realized, nor a hope blasted. In respect to the 
objects of my mission, I hope they have, at least in 
a measure, been gained. Without one exception, I 
have preached every Sabbath, either at Canton, 
Whampoa, or Macao. Part of the time two ser- 
vices have been held. Much of the time has been 
spent in preparing such sermons as were deemed 
applicable. This, in connection with what was de- 
voted to the language and other necessary engage- 
ments, has consumed the year. In my motives and 
efforts to adapt discourses to my auditories, I have 
no particular convictions of guilt. Whether the 
best plan was pursued, I am unable to decide ; but, 
that the object was the best interest of the commu- 



MEMOIR OP DAVID ABEEL. 83 

nity, I hope I am not deceived in believing. I hope 
good has been effected ; but I have much reason to 
suppose that more could, and should have been ac- 
complished. 

" And now I am again unsettled, on the wide world 
of waters, and with the expectation of spending a 
year or more in wandering. All is dark before me, 
and I can but pray that my spirit may be kept from 
the distracting and deadening influence of traveling 
— that I may be strengthened to gain all the objects 
of my tour — and that my body may be preserved 
from the many dangers to which it will be probably 
exposed. In Thy hands, great Redeemer, I leave 
myself. To Thy service I would renew the dedica- 
tion of my soul, my body, my all. Oh, direct me in 
the path of duty. Preserve me from all sin. Lead 
me not into temptation. Make me a blessing to 
every brother whom I may meet. Make me an in- 
strument of awakening the slumbering churches — 
of bringing many to a knowledge of the truth — of 
gaining every object of my tour — and, Oh, grant 
that my interest in this important cause, may be in- 
creased a hundred fold ; and that the time to favor 
this extensive and populous region of the world — 
promised to thyself as thine inheritance — may speed- 
ily come. From this hour, Oh, keep, direct, pre- 
serve, animate, and comfort my soul. Let me not 
follow the devices and desires of my own heart. 
May every way be closed but the one in which I 
should go, — may every obstacle be removed to the 
conversion of the heathen." 

While on board this vessel he exercised all the 



84 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

privileges, and performed the duties of a chaplain 
among its numerous crew ; receiving at the same 
time, much assistance from the commanding officer 
himself. He writes, — " The Castle Huntley, though 
rather inferior in dimensions to some of the vessels 
in the same service, exceeds thirteen hundred tons 
in burden, carries twenty-six guns, and has a crew 
of a hundred and forty men. Every ship of this 
kind affords scope for the most zealous chaplain ; 
and if, as in the present instance, favored with the 
advice, the co-operation, and the prayers of the 
commander, the prospect of success is highly ani- 
mating. Whenever the weather admitted, we had 
divine service every Sabbath morning, on deck ; 
and every evening in the cuddy. A part of almost 
every day was spent on the gun-deck among the 
crew, visiting the sick, instructing the ignorant, and 
exhorting all ' to repent and believe/ " 

Having arrived at Angier, the port of supplies for 
vessels that stop at the Island of Java, he crossed 
the island by stage to Batavia, which place he 
reached on the 20th of January, 1831. He found 
a home in the family of Mr. Medhurst, whom he 
assisted in missionary duties while he remained in 
Java. He also employed himself in studying the 
Chinese language. A view of his labors may be 
obtained from the following extracts from his jour- 
nal : — 

" Having accepted the kind invitation of Mr. and 
Mrs. Medhurst, to take up my residence with them, 
I employed my time principally, in accompanying 
the missionary in his daily labors among the heathen, 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 85 

and in studying that dialect of the Chinese language 
which is most current in their foreign settlements." 

" January 26. — Spent part of this morning among 
the Chinese residents in town. Mr. M. generally 
devotes a portion of every day to visiting the na- 
tives and Chinese, for the purpose of conversing, 
and distributing tracts. In every house where there 
appears a probability of engaging the occupants in 
conversation, he enters — sometimes by invitation — 
generally, ' sans ceremonie.' The Chinese sense of 
politeness is such, as always to secure him a recep- 
tion sufficient for his purpose. If not too much oc- 
cupied, they listen with apparent attention, and re- 
ceive the tracts readily. To the dwellings of the 
Malay, there is not the same liberty of access." 

"February 14. — Yesterday, (Sabbath) besides the 
ordinary English and Malay services in the mission 
chapel, we visited a large prison containing about 
three hundred native convicts. The missionary, or 
one of the young men who assist him, holds service 
here every Sabbath. It was a subject of consider- 
able anxiety to the prisoners, chiefly Mahometans, 
at the commencement of these religious exercises, 
to ascertain the precise objects of the preacher. 
Some imagined that the redemption to which he re- 
ferred, was deliverance from chains and imprison- 
ment. Others were filled with apprehension, and 
fancied from his statements of the evil and demerit 
of sin, that they were forthwith to be sold as slaves, 
and transported to some distant country. With a 
few exceptions, they all assembled beneath a cluster 
of large shady trees, and remained in a sitting pos-' 



86 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

ture until the services were closed. The counte- 
nances of many of them disclosed an interest in the 
subject which could not fail to animate the speaker. 
One of the prisoners who died a short time since, 
gave pleasing evidence of the benefit of these in- 
structions ; and confided his departing spirit into the 
hands of the Savior, of whom he had first heard 
in this place of confinement. Thus the very prison 
may become the gate of heaven ; and the fetters of 
the guilty, the appointed instrument to keep them 
back from destruction, and ' compel them to come 
in/ " 

*• March 29. — Having made arrangements to make 
a tour of about sixteen or eighteen miles in the 
country, we arose this morning, and pursued our 
journey some distance by the light of the moon. 
The undisturbed serenity of the hour, the sombre 
shade of the forest, and the pale beauties of the open 
landscape — the freshness of the dewy morning — 
and, above all, the tranquilizing influence of the 
moon with its thousand associations — combined to 
produce the most delightful effect upon the mind, 
sobered by a temporary suspension of thought, and 
still unruffled by the cares of the day. One of the 
descendants of the royal family joined us on horse- 
back, and continued some distance in the way we 
were traveling. He conversed sensibly on the sub- 
ject of religion ; and although professedly Mahom- 
etan, did not pretend to palliate the evil conse- 
quences of some of the prophet's doctrines, nor refuse 
to receive a Christian book. About nine o'clock 
\ve reached a small settlement of Portuguese, whose 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 87 

ancestors, by the might and power of the sword, 
were obliged to renounce Catholicism, and embrace 
the Protestant faith. Having left word that we 
would return in time to preach, we continued our 
journey about three miles farther, to the market- 
place. 

" In this part of our way, the country was adorned 
with the most extensive groves of cocoanuts I ever 
beheld. The oil of this nut is much employed by 
the natives, both in their cooking and in anointing 
their bodies. By the time we reached our place 
of destination the rays of the sun were very oppres- 
sive ; but the shade under which the natives assem- 
bled, afforded some relief, and enabled us to prosecute 
our labors. Mr. M. and the Amboynese convert 
who accompanied us, spent two or three hours in 
preaching to the natives, and distributing books. 
The crowd was not as great as at other places we 
had visited, although the tracts were disposed of 
with little difficulty. 

" We returned to the Portuguese settlement about 
mid-day ; and after resting an hour, and taking some 
refreshment, were invited to the house of God by 
the familiar tones of the church-going bell. About 
thirty convened in an old building erected in 1674, 
after the ancient style of Dutch architecture. Mr. 
Medhurst addressed the assembly, endeavoring to 
impress some of the lessons of Christianity, which it 
is very evident they knew merely in theory. They 
had been favored with the labors of a missionary, 
whose bones now repose before the door of the 
church. To me the occasion was unusually impres- 



88 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

sive ; and though I understood but little of the lan- 
guage, my reflections were, I hope, not without profit. 
It was strange to find a house dedicated to God 
amid these wilds of heathenism; — strange that it 
should have stood a century and a half in such a 
place — and still more deplorable than strange, that 
its light should have been so completely lost during 
all this time, iiflfche darkness that surrounds it. 

" These facts show the extensive sphere for mis- 
sionary labor in Java. At the same time they give 
but a very partial view of the various scenes of 
labor and interest, which might have been daily 
visited, had our number borne some trifling propor- 
tion to our opportunities of usefulness. The towns, 
the roads, the native schools, and, above all, the pas- 
sees or bazaars, (as they are termed in India,) which 
are held in every part of the surrounding country, 
furnish scope for the zeal of a large number of mis- 
sionaries. 

" These labors, with the regular services in Eng- 
lish and Malay — the visitation of the Chinese — su- 
perintendence of schools — the never-ending study of 
languages and preparation of books — besides all the 
various charitable objects in which the missionary 
must be the chief agent, — and his own duties of 
every day's recurrence, — constitute the immense 
burden which is made to rest with its chief weight 
upon the shoulders of one man. Soon may this 
neglected island receive the attention it claims from 
the Christian world." 

On the 4th of June, Mr. Abeel left Batavia, to 
prosecute his investigations in regard to other places. 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 89 

He reached Singapore after a passage of ten 
days. There he met his fellow-laborer Mr. Tom- 
lin, who was awaiting an opportunity of going to 
Siam. They found a vessel, which was about to sail 
after such a delay as was needed by them for nec- 
essary arrangements. They embarked on the 17th, 
and reached Siam on the 30th of June, where they 
were kindly entertained by the Portuguese consul 
resident at Bankok, a Roman Catholic by birth and 
profession, but a man of very liberal views and 
great hospitality. 

Mr. Abeel had anticipated much pleasure from 
the thought of meeting that indefatigable laborer, 
GutzlafF, at Siam ; but he was disappointed, as that 
gentleman had left the island the preceding day. 

His visit to Siam extended to six months, during 
which time he engaged with great diligence in mis- 
sionary labor, as will be seen by the following ex- 
tracts from letters written at this time. 

" Bankok, Siam, July 6, 1831. 
" I wrote you before I left Singapore. On Fri- 
day morning, June 17, we embarked in an Arab 
vessel, commanded by an English captain ; and af- 
ter a pleasant passage of two weeks, arrived at this 
place. On our arrival here we were well received 
by Mr. Carlos, the Portuguese consul — a Catholic 
by education, but too wise to be captivated by their 
foolish ceremonies. He proved a real friend to the 
missionaries before, and has again evinced his hos- 
pitality and good feeling. He has no especial re- 
gard for religion, but appears to be governed by the 



90 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

impulses of an amiable and benevolent heart. The 
Lord has certainly raised him up for his own pur- 
poses, and we have much cause of gratitude. 

" We have brought with us a good supply of medi- 
cines and books for gratuitous distribution. Expect 
to have our establishment well filled with invalids, 
and our hands with labor. My little attention to 
medicine has not been in vain. It produced a spirit 
of inquiry on the subject; and resulted in qualifica- 
tions which I shall now begin to find useful. How 
wonderful are the Lord's ways! How far from my 
thoughts was the ministry, or the missionary work, 
when I commenced the study of medicine. 

" We have seen so little of Siam, that I will defer 
a description of the place. Our prospects we con- 
sider encouraging, and our hearts rejoice in the 
privilege of laboring in such a cause. 

" For my own part, I know not whether I have 
ever enjoyed clearer indications of the Lord's will, 
than in my present engagements. I can live and 
die with pleasure in heathen lands. Instead of be- 
ing disheartened by the difficulties and privations, 
which, I acknowledge, once appeared appalling to 
my weak faith and slothful spirit, I can scarcely 
find the mountains over which the path ascends ; 
and feel as though I had sacrificed nothing at all. 
Not that I love you and country less than formerly, 
but that the Lord has mercifully revealed the mag- 
nitude of the work in which I am employed ; and 
given me such an interest in it, as leaves no dis- 
position, to engage in any other department of min- 
isterial duty. I am fully convinced that he who is 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 91 

wise enough to sacrifice all for Christ, shall be happy- 
enough, to regard his loss of no comparison with his 
gain/' 

" Bankok, Sept. 1, 1831. 
" Nearly two months have passed since Mr. Tom- 
lin and myself reached this place — during which 
time we have had our hands, and heads, and hearts 
quite occupied. We expected to find Mr. Gutzlaff 
here ; but, as I mentioned in my last, he had sailed 
for China a short time previous to our arrival. Our 
house was soon opened for the reception of inva- 
lids, and all who might feel disposed to call for more 
important objects ; and not a day has passed, with- 
out applications for medicines and books. Of the 
former we brought a good supply, sent out by the 
London Missionary Society. Chinese books we 
have in large quantities, and three hundred Siamese 
tracts, (the first Christian works, of any size in the 
language,) were brought with us from Singapore. 
Until the tracts, with the exception of a few un- 
bound copies, were gone, the house presented a 
lively scene. Men and women of almost all ranks 
have called, or sent for the Nung soo Prah Chow 
Sa-see, as they call it, (the book of the Lord Jesus.) 
It is to us a cheering fact, that the books have been 
so widely circulated ; and that there are such num- 
bers in the kingdom, both willing and able to read 
them. Education is very prevalent. My teacher 
informs me, that nearly all the community can read. 
This, and other considerations, render Siam a most 
promising missionary field. I know not that I have 



92 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

ever felt so interested in the conversion of the 
heathen world, as lately. How is it possible to 
resist the impression, when you find such numbers 
around you, in gross ignorance, willing to read 
Christian books, and some few of them apparently 
anxious to know the truth. Thus far there has been 
a barrier between my tongue and their understand- 
ings ; and I can assure you, I feel as though I can 
have but little rest, until it is removed. My health 
continues very good, and enables me to study with 
no ill effects. Occasionally, I receive a flying visit 
from my old companion ; but since I landed on the 
shores of China, I have known very little of former 
troubles. The Lord has dealt with me in infinite 
mercy. I never expected to have the bodily vigor 
and endurance, with which I have been blessed. I 
recollect, when the thought of attacking a difficult 
language was quite appalling. But, ' as thy day, so 
shall thy strength be.' I find, so far as it regards 
application of mind, I have been strengthened to 
make some head against one of the most difficult 
languages in the world ; and am by no means dis- 
couraged in attempting another. I did not know 
whether I should commence these studies, when I 
left Canton, at least for the present; but when I 
reached Batavia, and saw my brother, to whom I 
soon found myself warmly attached, engaged from 
day to day instructing the ignorant of other tongues, 
my mind soon became fixed, on the subject of duty; 
and has never swerved a moment since. I do not 
know how often I have felt grateful since, that the 
Lord inclined me to that step. In fact, I must have 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 93 

remained miserable, as long as I deferred it. I had 
time and strength ; and was called to see what mul- 
titudes were pleading with resistless eloquence, for 
what I scarcely should have known how to employ. 
Now, though with a very stammering tongue, I can 
tell the heathen of the true God, of whom many of 
them declare they have never heard; and of the 
only Savior to whom they can look for eternal life. 
The Lord has plainly taught me, that I have not 
mistaken my duty. My own conscience bears am- 
ple testimony, and the dispensations of His provi- 
dence are quite unequivocal. In all probability, my 
fellow-laborer will be obliged to leave Siam before 
many months. Besides having a family at Singa- 
pore, his health is so feeble, that I do not believe he 
can remain here long. He was compelled to leave 
before, as you may see in his journal ; and the same 
events I have constantly anticipated since we land- 
ed. The consequence would have probably been, 
that one of the most promising fields in heathen 
lands must be deserted ; and that, at the very time, 
when the minds of the people appear most stirred 
up for Christian instruction. Thus, you may see, 
my way for the present is hedged in. I have heard 
some mention made about the London Society ap- 
pointing missionaries to Siam ; but whether the men 
have been found, and when they will be sent, are 
uncertain. They may be here by the first arrival, 
or may delay years. I intend to press the point with 
the American Board ; and sincerely hope, that they 
may send out a detachment to these destitute re- 
gions. 



94 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

" I doubt whether any mention was made in my 
last of Bankok — I mean its appearance, &c. I have 
been but once in the thickly inhabited parts of what 
may be termed the city, although the circumjacent 
country, or rather that part of it bordering the river, 
deserves that name. For some miles the river is lined 
with houses, many of them built on rafts ; beneath 
which is such a depth of water, that the ship in which 
we came, parted from her moorings, and came in con- 
tact with them without touching the bottom. These 
buildings are generally frail and contracted, and ap- 
pear much like an Indian's wigwam. The walled 
city contains a number of rather splendid edifices. 
The palace, and many of the pagodas, are quite 
gaudy, if not imposing. We live about two miles 
below the palace ; and between us and the city, is 
an extensive Chinese settlement. The houses ex- 
tend quite a distance below us. For miles, espe- 
cially in our vicinity, there are no streets, nothing 
but a narrow pathway, constructed in many places 
of slabs of timber, raised about a foot above the 
muddy surface of the ground. These paths wind 
in almost every direction, and lead you through all 
kinds of places. Beyond the range of houses are 
gardens, cultivated, and kept in good condition. 
Then come the rice fields, which extend over a 
level, uninteresting surface, for many miles. The 
whole country is exceedingly low, without the least 
hill for a long distance; and generally so satura- 
ted with water, that, were it not for the plank 
walk, you could not get along. In the dry season, 
it is said to be better, and to admit of quite exten- 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL, 95 

sive ranges, even in the rice fields. The people 
have very little idea of refinement, or even of de- 
cency, if our standard be correct. They go almost 
naked, and in their conduct are very puerile. We 
are often amused with their simplicity ; and led to 
hope that they will more readily yield to religious in- 
fluence, than the self-exalted Chinamen. Even men 
of the first respectability, will examine your clothes 
and person with a monkey's curiosity, and express 
all the surprise of children as they proceed. The 
proportion of priests is almost incredible, probably 
no less than 10,000 in Bankok and the suburbs. 
They are among our daily visitors, and some days 
there will be about twenty at one time. Oh, how I 
long for the language, to embrace these favorable 
opportunities/' 

The following are extracts from the journal of his 
labors at this time : — 

" July 25. — Since our arrival, the medical depos- 
itory has been a scene of much activity, from the 
numerous -calls for aid. The diseases of the natives 
are various ; many of them brought upon them- 
selves by their iniquities, and some of a deep and 
desperate malignity. Our want of extensive sci- 
ence and practice, more especially my own, proves 
rather inconvenient in cases of a complicated na- 
ture ; but generally, and at times, strikingly, our 
prescriptions are made to answer the desired end." 

"August 1. — Whenever the weather would ad- 
mit, we have spent an hour or two before breakfast, 
in teaching the people from house to house. They 
listen to the Gospel with attention ; and though 



96 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

their own idolatry is plainly denounced, say nothing 
in its vindication. We daily meet with the very 
counterpart of characters in Gospel lands ; men 
who will take the subject from your lips, and des- 
cant upon it with eloquence to those around them, 
but who evidently know little of its import, and 
nothing of its power. Their eloquence is exhausted 
upon minor topics ; and when reminded of the great 
mysteries of the Gospel, — the points of difference 
between Christianity and the ethics of Confucius — 
they show by their silence that they are quite as ig- 
norant as their audience." 

The missionaries were frequently visited and en- 
couraged by the royal family of Siam. Their in- 
tercourse with them was frequent and unrestricted. 
They had no lack of visitors of every description, 
and hearers on all occasions. Everything gave in- 
dication of success, if the labors could be carried on 
with a sufficient force. 

But the instructions which he had received, as 
well as the state of his health, demanded that Mr. 
Abeel should make further explorations. Accord- 
ingly, on January 14th, 1832, he left Bankok for the 
purpose of visiting Singapore and Malacca. In the 
former place he had remained for three days on his 
way to Siam ; the latter he had not as yet visited. 

He arrived at Singapore on the 22nd of January, 
and continued there until March. Having opportu- 
nities for exercise, which were denied him at Siam, 
he soon recovered. His strength returned ; and he 
then made a short but delightful visit to Malacca, 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 97 

to the Chinese college established there by Dr. Mor- 
rison. 

During these visits he was continually engaged 
in missionary labors. He was now able to com- 
municate with the Chinese, and he assisted the mis- 
sionaries at Singapore, as well as at Java, by dis- 
tributing books, and conversing with the sailors and 
Chinese residents. He never rested from his labors 
except when so much indisposed as to be unable to 
endure any exertion. He was a co-worker with 
the missionary wherever he went, it mattered not 
what was the denominational difference between 
them. His spirit was eminently catholic ; and he 
paid no attention to any distinction of creed, if men 
only built upon the rock Christ Jesus, and labored 
for His glory. He was filling to be the servant of 
any, if he might thereby serve Christ. 

Thus far, there have been no extracts made from 
his diary, showing the state and growth of his re- 
ligious feelings during the time embraced in this 
chapter. The diary is so full of lofty sentiment, 
and manifests so devoted, humble a spirit, that it 
seems expedient, instead of disconnecting it, to pre- 
sent the extracts at the close of every chapter in a 
continuous manner. Thus the reader can compre- 
hend more easily the great moving principles of his 
conduct, and the chief themes of his meditation ; 
and learn more fully what manner of man he was, 
in all zeal, and spiritual knowledge, and consecra- 
tion. 

"January 29, 1831. — My mind has been more 
than ordinarily aroused, by the eternity which I 

5 



98 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

hope to spend with my God and Savior. Strange 
that such a hope would admit the least approach to 
apathy and slothfulness ; and yet, alas! I sink into a 
torpor, and often remain for weeks without an ani- 
mating thought of my eternal home. Oh, I cannot 
but question whether ' my life is hid with Christ in 
God,' when I am so much of my time unconscious 
of the motives to effort, and sources of happiness 
which are fully perceived when the soul awakes 
to its true relations and condition. While on this 
island, I humbly pray that I may impart and receive 
benefit. My time I expect to spend in preaching, 
and studying the most prevalent languages in these 
regions — the Chinese and Malayan. The Lord 
direct whether and when to leave, that my life may 
not be wasted in preparing for labor, or in laboring 
where neither the field or myself is prepared." 

u February 13. — Have enjoyed more than an 
ordinary spirit of prayer through the week. The 
Lord has strengthened me to wrestle with Him for 
deliverance from sin, and for zeal and energy in His 
service. Have seldom, if ever, felt stronger faith 
in the promise and determination of the Lord to 
convert the world. How delightful to plead with 
earnestness for an object of such incalculable im- 
portance, when the Lord has revealed it as his gra- 
cious purpose. Besides, the signs of the times are 
more encouraging in these regions, than ever. We 
are greeted with pleasing intelligence from our 
brethren in other fields, and cannot but believe that 
the day is approaching, when ; the kingdoms of this 
world shall become,' &e. The ability of God to 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 99 

convert the world by the means now employed, 
though always admitted, has never been so deeply 
impressed on my mind as recently. Should every 
sermon, and exhortation, and conversation, be at- 
tended by the operation of His Holy Spirit, how 
soon the world would be converted. And until that 
Almighty Agent deigns to co-operate with human in- 
struments, what can be expected from these means 
though multiplied a hundred fold." 

" April 3. — Enjoyed the blessed privilege of com- 
memorating the Savior's dying love this morning. 
It was a pleasant season, and I pray God that it 
may tend to strengthen my Christian graces, and 
destroy the principles of strong depravity in my 
soul. My spirit is often refreshed and enlarged in 
prayer, and I have reason to hope some sins are 
losing their power. I believe I feel not only recon- 
ciled to the thought of seeing my dear friends no 
more, but anxious that such scenes of interest and 
labor may be presented, as shall demand my pres- 
ence. I desire this night to surrender myself into 
the hands of my gracious Redeemer, to be employed 
through all my remaining days as shall be most con- 
sistent with His will and glory. Lord Jesus direct, 
sanctify, enliven ; and may I be thine in time and 
through eternity." 

" August 17. — The Lord continues to deal most 
mercifully. He has given me some idea of the ex- 
ceeding grace conferred upon me, — ' Unto me who 
am less than the least of all saints, is this grace 
given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the 
unsearchable riches of Christ/ I esteem it a great 



100 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

honor. Oh, Lord, 1 bless thee for it, and beseech 
thee for a daily conviction of my weakness. Oh, 
for the deepest humility — for such a knowledge of 
myself, without the evidence of outbreaking iniqui- 
ties, as shall force home the conclusion that I am 
not worthy to be called a saint. Alas ! the want of 
lowliness of mind is a principal source of grief. If 
I loved Jesus more, I believe I should be more af- 
fected by my want of conformity to His holy image, 
and my rebellion against his laws. Greatly have I 
been favored. The Lord's Spirit often refreshes 
me. Seldom have I possessed such lively views of 
my heavenly rest, — seldom such a firm belief of the 
Lord's willingness and determination to save me. 
Faith is indeed the ' substance of things hoped for.' 
The certainty of its object has been impressed upon 
my mind to the expulsion of all recent doubts. A 
sight of Christ and eternity could add nothing to the 
reality. If my Father has given His Son, what can 
be withholden ? The question of salvation is settled. 
He must be exceedingly desirous to redeem sinners ; 
and how is it possible that any can perish who fix 
the eye of faith upon a bleeding Saviour. It appears, 
that the apprehensions of many Christians, are con- 
sistent only with the deepest ingratitude, and most 
unprovoked suspicion of the Lord's mercy and truth. 
When I sin, I know I think differently and reason 
differently ; but how can my sins invalidate God's 
truth. If He was not infinitely more desirous to 
save us, than we are to be saved, would He have 
given His only Son ? I have reason to believe, that 
my mind is becoming more exclusively devoted to 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 101 

the Savior's glory. I feel more than ever, as 
though I should have no hesitancy, were the points 
determined, in laboring where I can be most useful. 
My mind, I thankfully believe, is losing above its nat- 
ural and self-indulgent predilections ; and begins to 
look at the blessed Redeemer, and His kingdom, with 
an interest more consistent with the perfection of 
His character, the magnitude of His love, and the 
benevolence of His purpose. Oh, my God ! I desire 
nothing so much as the triumphant ascendency of a 
Savior's love in my heart, and the privilege of be- 
ing instrumental in aiding in the conversion of the 
world. Grant me the gifts and graces of thy Spirit, 
and from this hour, keep me from deviating from 
the path of duty, for thy Son's sake. 

M 21. — Ebenezer ! What shall I render to the Lord 
for his many, many mercies. My health experienced 
something of a shock, but the Lord has again res- 
tored it. I have enjoyed the marrow and fatness 
of the word, and have been enabled to pour out my 
soul in prayer for the whole world. But alas ! I am 
daily reminded of my pride and corruption of heart. 
The passage, ' Ye are dead and your life is hid with 
Christ in God,' has startled me. I often fear that 
these strong expressions cannot apply to me, without 
an unwarranted latitude of meaning. Oh, Jesus! 
may I be crucified with thee, and live only to thee. 
My dear relatives, Christian friends, and ungodly ac- 
quaintances, with all who call upon the Lord Jesus » 
in sincerity, and all who stand in need of his grace, 
are subjects of especial interest on this sacred day." 

" 28. God's exceeding kindness to His prodigal 



102 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

son has greatly encouraged my confidence. ' For 
thou Lord art good, and ready to forgive, and plen- 
teous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee/ 
What a joy inspiring truth ! What have I to fear ? 
I think my mind has received something of a new 
impression ; before, I knew the rapidity of time, but 
felt it more forcibly when past — now I seem to see it 
gliding by me. Oh, the fleetness of its wings ! Lord 
help me to improve it. Still much to mourn over — 
too little of Jesus in my last and first collected 
thoughts, too little in my dreaming fancies. Often 
am I distressed for the latter. My mind has been 
dwelling with strong emotions upon my past sins 
and omissions of duty. But little on which I can 
dwell with satisfaction, and probably shall never 
have an opportunity to amend or undo ; this would 
be no ground of justification, I know, but my mind 
is more troubled for others than myself; I humbly 
trust God has forgiven my sins, for His dear Son's 
sake. The wretchedness of the heathen, has also 
been impressed upon me. I see them passing by 
in multitudes — full of cares and sorrows — without 
any rational support — without hope — without God 
in the world. Not as contented as the brutes, and 
yet as ignorant of their real superiority. Bent 
upon trifles — and even asking, what is existence, 
without some of the most beastly indulgences, to 
render it tolerable ? These are to live forever. 
Oh, are they not to die forever ? The Lord in mercy 
fill my soul with His own compassion, and graciously 
pour out His Spirit upon this wilderness." 

"March 24. — I find, that without coming fre- 



HiMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL, 103 

quently to a stand, opening my eyes, and ascertain- 
ing where I am, and whither going, all my diligence 
is like the hasty step of a blind man, out of his fa- 
miliar road. I desire to awake with a glow of love 
to Jesus, to seek him first of all, and never be con- 
tented until I have found him — to take him with 
me where I go — and detain him where I stay — to 
find him in every duty — recognize and enjoy him in 
every event — consult him in every undertaking — 
cling to him in every trial — search for him in the 
heart and conversation of all whom I meet — and if 
the search is vain, endeavor to commend him to the 
warmest affections of all." 



CHAPTER VI. 

In the last chapter, we mentioned the visits of 
Mr. Abeel to the different islands of the Eastern 
Archipelago, for the double purpose of benefiting 
his health, and obtaining missionary information. 
The providence of God smiled upon the means used 
to restore his strength, and he again returned to his 
former interesting station. 

This second visit of Mr. Abeel to Siam was event- 
ful in missionary toils. He arrived there May 19th, 
1832. Unaided by a single fellow-laborer, he en- 
tered upon all the duties connected with the mis- 
sionary station, performing the double office of phy- 
sician for the diseases of the body and the soul. 
He was entirely excluded from Christian intercourse 
and sympathy, yet he persevered with energy in the 
prosecution of his work. As it was one of his most 
arduous seasons of missionary effort, and tended to 
display the extent of his consecration, and devoted- 
ness to the service of his Master, it is deemed ex- 
pedient to make copious extracts from his journal 
during this time. It must be remembered that these 
labors were performed while he was enfeebled by 
disease. His spirits were often depressed through 
the influence exerted by the body upon the mind, 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 105 

but this did not diminish his activity. He was only- 
willing to yield when his strength was entirely ex- 
pended, and the sufferings of the body demanded 
rest and quiet. But his own description will present 
more clearly the nature and extent of his efforts in 
this wide-spread and promising field. 

" My second residence in Siam consumed be- 
tween five and six months. The object which hast- 
ened my departure from the Straits, before there 
could be a rational hope of the restoration of health, 
was the supplying of the Chinese junks about re- 
turning to the empire, with Christian books. It ap- 
peared so doubtful, whether, even if I remained 
longer at Singapore, I should not be eventually com- 
pelled to try a change to a cold climate, that I felt 
determined rather to hazard the experiment upon 
my health, than to suffer an opportunity of such ex- 
tensive usefulness to pass unimproved. With the 
blessing of the Lord, striking and encouraging in 
many respects, I arrived in time to furnish about 
fifty junks, bound for China, and Hainam, its de- 
pendency, with the Scriptures and Christian books. 
The delay of a week would have lessened the num- 
ber materially. Nearly thirty had already sailed, 
and the rest were hastening away with the greatest 
dispatch. 

" The medical department commenced with the 
mission, is well adapted to the place. It is calcu- 
lated to give influence to the missionary, if success- 
ful in his practice. It attracts many from different 
and distant parts, to whom we could otherwise have 
no possible access. It affords an opportunity for in- 

5* 



106 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

structing those who come, and lays them under such 
obligations as can be employed in securing both 
their attention to your remarks, and their attend- 
ance upon the established ordinances of religion. 
But this charity is dictated by a regard to the wel- 
fare of this life, as well as of the life to come. The 
most common complaints are those which yield 
readily to our applications, but whose permanent 
cure baffles the skill of the natives, and resists the 
power of all their medicines. 

"21. — A busy day. Great numbers for books. 
More than I remember ever to have seen before. 
They were principally Hainam men, from a vessel 
which they are building in our neighborhood. This 
afternoon commenced visiting the China junks, to 
supply them with the Scriptures and other religious 
books. Having a letter to the captain of the port, 
who acts as interpreter between foreigners and the 
Prak Klang, I called at his house, and was informed 
that the king had commanded his officers to pro- 
hibit me from distributing the books, which he had 
heard I brought with me. ' If we wanted to dis- 
seminate our religion,' his majesty remarked, 'we 
must go to some other country.' A number of con- 
siderations prevented a change in my plans ; and 
looking for wisdom to Him in whose hands are the 
hearts of kings, I went from the interpreter's house 
to the- great business on which I came forth. In 
four of the five junks visited, the books were well 
received. Occasionally you meet with those who 
are full of all suspicion, and with whom little can 
be done." 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 107 

"31. — Yesterday afternoon the Prince Chow Fah 
sent for me to dine at his house. The message was 
committed in such a manner, or to such a messen- 
ger, as would admit of no refusal, although it was 
raining at the time and likely to continue. We are 
often obliged to gratify them contrary to our incli- 
nations, that we may secure their favor, and be bet- 
ter enabled to benefit them and their nation. The 
entertainment was in European style, and consisted 
of a variety of dishes. He did not partake with us, 
it being the custom of the princes to eat alone. He 
offered as an apology, that he had dined. 

"After dinner, he amused us with music upon 
some of their native instruments, being himself an 
amateur, aided by the vocal strains of one of his 
attendants. Between the musical powers of the 
Chinese and Siamese, there is a striking contrast, 
altogether in favor of the talent and taste of the 
latter. The instruments are much more melodious, 
and their voices softer and more natural. They 
usually employ two instruments of percussion, pro- 
bably borrowed from the Javanese. The one is 
made of transverse pieces of bamboo, suspended by 
strings upon a small shallop frame-work ; the other 
consists of a number of hollow copper vessels of 
different sizes, hung upon a circular frame. Their 
sweetest wind instruments are borrowed from the 
Laos. They are made of a number of reeds of un- 
equal lengths, put together, and perforated so as to 
give the necessary distinction of notes. On this in- 
strument the prince performs with much taste. The 
more we see of this young man, the more we are 



108 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

struck with the variety of his talents. Oh that the 
Savior would verify the prediction and promise in 
him, ' Kings shall see and arise, princes also shall 
worship.' " 

" September 2. — Our little worshipping assembly 
has just dispersed. About twenty were present. It 
is so affecting to see a company of poor pagans as- 
semble on the Lord's day to hear the doctrines of 
the Gospel, and bow the knee to their great Author, 
that I can scarcely endure the thought of leaving 
them ; and am at times perplexed to know, whether, 
even measures for self-preservation, ought not to 
yield to the claims of a whole kingdom. I must 
however remember, that if the first be necessary, 
the other must in any case be abandoned. The har- 
vest truly is great, but the laborers are few. Two 
events have recently occurred, which tend to pro- 
mote the objects of the mission. They have been 
constructing a brick foot-path between our premises 
and the Chinese settlement. The way was almost 
impassable before, even to the bare-footed peripa- 
tetics. It is now made of materials, and in a man- 
ner, which will probably surmount the height of the 
annual flood, and resist the action of its waters. 
Though a miserable place to walk for exercise, on 
account of the narrowness of the way, the crowd of 
passengers, and what is worse than all, the number 
and annoyance of the dogs, yet it is the only alter- 
native during the greater part of the year, to remain- 
ing within our own little inclosure ; and it is neces- 
sary to the prosecution of those external duties 
which ought not to be neglected in this mission. Its 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 109 

chief advantage, however, is the facility with which 
visitors, patients, and worshippers can come to the 
house. 

" The other event is an agreement entered into 
with Chow Fah, which affords to me advantages 
for the acquisition of their language, and opens a 
door for instructing him. Every second day he 
sends for me to come and teach him the English, 
and the alternate day he sends a teacher to instruct 
me in Siamese. Want of health prevents me from 
availing myself of the benefits of the arrangement, 
except in a limited measure ; and I am sorry to find 
that want of inclination, or fear, debars him from 
the full advantage of that information which I am 
principally anxious to impart. He bids fair for the 
throne, and is, perhaps, afraid of anything which 
might render his success doubtful. He hears con- 
siderable, however, in the way of circumlocution. 
In fact I am withheld from the plainest, most pointed 
conversation, only by the apprehension of defeating 
my own object ; and when there are sufficient 
grounds for dismissing this apprehension, the effort, 
in the Lord's strength, shall be made. Still I very 
much fear, that an imperfect knowledge of his lan- 
guage renders all my instructions comparatively un- 
availing. 

" September 25. — My visits to the prince have 
been suspended some time, on account of the death 
of an aunt who was living with him. On these oc- 
casions, all the servants and subjects are obliged to 
have their heads shaved. To-day he took me to see 
the style in which the body is preserved, and wit- 



110 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

ness some of the ceremonies preparatory to its be- 
ing burned. It is partially embalmed in a sitting 
posture, with the feet drawn up, and the elbows be- 
tween the knees. The shrine or case in which it is 
preserved, is constructed like a pyramid, and decked 
with canopies and other ornaments. The priests 
were present, and had been repeating their prayers 
in a funeral tone of voice. At six in the evening 
twenty -four drums were beaten and trumpets blown : 
to frighten away the evil spirits, as I conjectured, 
by way of interrogation — but from mere custom, as 
my quick-sighted informant replied. He admitted, 
however, that they did believe they could drive 
away evil spirits, though guns and not drums were 
the proper instruments. 

" October 7. — To-day our number exceeded twenty 
by one or two. In the evening the priest called and 
returned three volumes of the word of God, which 
he had taken to copy. Not knowing whether I 
should ever have another opportunity for private 
conversation with him, and feeling a strong interest 
in his eternal welfare, I spoke as freely as I could on 
the importance of having the heart interested in the 
truths which he had taken some pains to learn. I 
mentioned that his was the simple knowledge of the 
head, which could be of no avail toward his salva- 
tion, as long as the affections were unmoved, and 
his idolatry retained. By a word or two and a very 
significant gesture, he made me to understand that 
the fear of decapitation was the great preventive to 
a change of his faith. I told him what the Savior 
commanded his disciples about not fearing those 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. Ill 

who could kill only the body, and that thousands for 
the love of Jesus and eternal life, had been trans- 
ported on fiery chariots to heaven. 

" His case reminds one of the priests in the 
Savior's day ; who, it is said, believed, but did not 
confess him openly, for the same reason. I think 
there is but little doubt, but that if a change of cir- 
cumstances should dissipate these fears, he would be 
among the first in the kingdom to embrace Chris- 
tianity. Alas ! that such a change of circumstances 
should be at all necessary. 

" October 14. — Since the commencement of our 
Sabbath service, I have not seen such fixed and 
thoughtful attention as was apparent towards the 
close of this morning's exhortation. The Spirit of 
the living Savior was doubtless with us ; and the 
hearts of many, I sincerely believe, felt his sacred 
presence. Again the sadness of separation came 
over my spirits, and again I commended this little 
band to the ' Shepherd and Bishop of souls.' The 
more we labor for the heathen, the more we see the 
necessity of laboring with our own hearts. It is 
difficult to say w T hich is the most painful, to toil with 
no encouragement, or to leave unaccomplished the 
most encouraging labors. If there were others to 
take the place of those who are compelled to retire, 
or if the flock from whom their pastor is removed 
had attained to strength, the trial is comparatively 
light. To labor with patience and perseverance, 
expectation and prayer, is not sufficient, at least for 
the comfort of the instrument; he must learn to 
have his spirit so attuned, that the animating strain, 



112 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

' I can do all things through Christ which strength- 
ened me,' may allow of the interlude, c not my will 
but thine be done.' During the last week I have 
supplied the Burman camp with tracts brought with 
me, in their own language. The books were well 
received by priests and people. 

" October 24. — Have been informed upon good 
authority, that the Roman Catholics in China are re- 
inforced this year, by a bishop and four missiona- 
ries ; and in Siam by one missionary. The vice- 
roy of Saigon, in Cochin China, who was very 
favorable to that religion, and a man of vast power 
in the kingdom, has lately died ; which has produced 
such apprehensions among the priests in regard to 
their safety, that they have begged the Bishop of 
Siam to offer public prayers for their preservation. 
The same authority states that the number of Chris- 
tians in Corea is about ten thousand. They have 
no European priests, but are supplied by natives 
from China. A bishop and several missionaries are 
soon to be appointed. 

" November 4. — Expecting to leave the place be- 
fore this day, I had made arrangements for those 
who were disposed to continue the Sabbath services, 
to meet in future in the same place and at the same 
hour. All whom I had any reason to expect, came, 
and these brought others with them, so that the 
number was as great as usual. Having, in the pres- 
ence of all, mentioned the person by whom I desired 
the exercises to be principally conducted, I resigned 
the office to him, and sat as a listener. The audience 
were very silent and attentive, and the expounder 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 113 

animated and happy in his views and illustrations. 
It was very evident to me, that, exclusive of the 
obligations which would probably bind a greater 
number to me than to the substitute, or to their own 
best interests, the change is in many important 
respects desirable. In power of language he has 
greatly the advantage, at least in his own dialect, 
which is more familiar to others, and less to myself 
than the Fokien. His knowledge is quite extensive ; 
the result evidently of much reading, and I hope of 
spiritual illumination. Besides he knows their modes 
of thinking and reasoning on moral subjects, and the 
objections they entertain against Christianity, which 
have been often urged against his faith, but which 
they are more backward to express in my presence. " 

After six months of labor almost uninterrupted, 
Mr. AbeePs health entirely failed, and he was ob- 
liged to leave Siam. His constitution suffered 
greatly from the confinement which he was forced 
to undergo, on account of the situation of the coun- 
try. His residence was elevated above the water 
on spiles, and his only means of conveyance was by 
boats. 

He found it necessary to seek some place where 
he could exercise freely, both in riding and walking. 
He left the Mission of Siam in a prosperous condi- 
tion. The seed was beginning to bear fruit ; and 
others came in after and reaped the harvest. 

He writes, " Since I left Siam, other missionaries 
have entered the field. Mr. and Mrs. Jones of the 
American Baptist Church arrived early the follow- 
ing year. In a communication made to the Society 



114 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

to which he belongs, Mr. J. states, under the date of 
September 22d, 1833, that the little congregation of 
which frequent mention has been made, continue to 
worship in the place appointed them, and that twen- 
ty were present on the preceding Sabbath. In ano- 
ther letter written in December of the same year, 
he says, ' Our little assembly of Chinese still con- 
tinues, conducted by Bunty as usual. We have had, 
for some months, as good evidence as I could ex- 
pect, that two or three of his associates were true 
converts ; but, owing to my ignorance of their lan- 
guage, and their slight acquaintance with Siamese, 
I had hitherto declined their repeated solicitations 
for baptism. At length, circumstances were such, 
that I did not feel at liberty to decline any longer ; 
and on Sabbath morning the 8th inst., I administered 
the rite to Chek Bunty, Chek Peng, and Chek Lang 
Seak. Chek is a familiar appellative among the 
Chinese, signifying uncle/ " 

After his arrival at Singapore in November, he 
experienced much benefit from the change of air 
and constant exercise. But as soon as his strength 
was renewed, his time became doubly occupied in 
labor both as a pastor and missionary. 

He was called to watch at the bedside of a be- 
loved Christian brother, the Rev. Mr. Burn, Eng- 
lish chaplain at Singapore. During his whole illness 
he was with him continually, ministering to his per- 
sonal wants, and at the same time performing the 
duties of the chaplaincy. Mr. Burns died ; and the 
circumstances of his decease made a lasting im- 
pression on the mind of this servant of Jesus, who 



MEMOIR OP DAVID ABEEL. 115 

had dispensed to him the consolations of religion 
even to the end. 

His notice of his death, and sketch of his char- 
acter, are full of feeling, and display that humility 
which honors devoted piety wherever found. 

"January 18, 1833. — Yesterday at half-past nine 
in the morning, I had the mournful satisfaction of 
witnessing the departure of my beloved Christian 
brother, the Rev. Robert Burn, Chaplain of Singa- 
pore. I feel thankful for the privilege of attending 
his sick bed for about a month and a half, and for 
receiving and endeavoring to communicate such 
lessons, as fit the dying to depart in peace, and the 
surviving to live with profit. Mr. Burn was an 
ornament to the ministry. In him were united some 
of the rarest qualities of intellect and heart. In the 
private circle and in the pulpit, he often manifested 
such efforts of genius and judgment as are seldom 
combined. His views of divine truth were uncom- 
monly expansive and consistent, and w T hat gave 
them a double charm and impressiveness, was the 
tenderness and humility of spirit which they had 
produced in himself. His judgment was too un- 
biased, and his experience too comprehensive, to 
consider important those trifling points which divide 
into parties the Christian Church. He had his 
peculiar views and predilections, but in his inter- 
course with those of other sects, they were never 
obtruded, and in his ordinary conversation they 
were seldom mentioned. Wherever he saw the 
image of Jesus he acknowledged a brother. Mis- 
sionaries of every name and from every country 



116 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

were welcomed to his house ; and while he gladly 
co-operated with them in their missionary labors, 
he availed himself of all their aid in his own sphere 
of duty. Such Christian magnanimity how rare, 
and yet how conducive to the interests of all par- 
ties — the salvation of a world — the glory of an un- 
divided Saviour. But there was another peculiarity 
in this beloved brother, which not only won the 
hearts of all who knew him, but perhaps more than 
anything else, improved those other traits of charac- 
ter in which he excelled. He was not simply an 
Apollos in the Scriptures, but an Israel in prayer. 
Before I had the pleasure of his acquaintance, he 
was described to me as one who appeared ready, 
under all circumstances, to 'fall upon his knees before 
God ;' and the first time and the last, and every time 
I heard him give utterance to the sanctified impres- 
sions and desires of his own heart, exceeded every 
expectation I had formed. Such a fervor and con- 
fidence of spirit — such power in employing the argu- 
ments which a covenant God has furnished, and 
which he cannot resist — such a tender concern for 
all his friends, his scattered brethren in Christ, and 
his perishing fellow sinners in every place — I believe 
is rarely exhibited, scarcely ever surpassed. The 
admiration of all who ever heard him pray is uni- 
form. God grant that many such spiritual wrestlers 
may adorn and bless the church. 

"In his own estimation, he was below all things 
None were so unqualified for his office, or so un- 
faithful in the discharge of its responsible duties. 
He could weep and tremble when this was the 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 117 

theme, and wish that he might escape from the 
station he so miserably filled, and shrink into his 
beloved retirement — an unknown obscurity. This 
was well as far as it respects its influence on his 
own spirit, but it evidently interfered with his use- 
fulness. That which he most deplored upon the 
bed of death, was the singular aversion which he 
had felt from his infancy, to mingling with society, 
or being made at all conspicuous. I never knew 
such diffidence connected with such capabilities of 
intellect. He was almost paralyzed at confronting 
those with whom he was not intimate, and in a 
degree proportioned to the part he was expected 
to sustain in their presence. This characteristic, 
though perfectly natural, proved a detriment to his 
extensive usefulness. It was our earnest desire, 
and not without some grounds of expectation, that 
this sickness might not be unto death ; but for the 
glory of God, in the eminent devotion of his ser- 
vant's future course. A large majority with the 
same complaint, and under the same treatment, had 
recovered ; and it was not until he had sunk under 
an irrecoverable relapse, that the thought of dying 
was admitted with any seriousness to our minds. 
We were much together, both waiting for the first 
favorable opportunity to embark for England. The 
evening of the sudden change which decided in our 
minds his earthly destiny, I was with him until a 
late hour. We engaged in devotion, as usual, and 
separated for the night, without the least expectation 
of his hastening departure. The next morning the 
•news came that he had passed a night of extreme 



118 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

illness, and would probably not survive the day. 
Agonized with the unlooked-for change, I hastened 
to his bedside ; but though he recognized me, and 
expressed his full knowledge of his approaching end, 
his mind soon lost its balance. At first he was agi- 
tated. It was a midnight summons, and we were 
all slumbering ; but when he trimmed his lamp, and 
found his vessel replenished, nay, when he looked 
up and beheld the Bridegroom, he recovered from 
the shock, and became composed. From this change, 
which preceded his departure about three days, he 
was generally in a state of delirium, and continued 
unconscious of his situation, until his spirit was 
released from its prison, and admitted into ' the joy 
of his Lord.' 

" Eternity probably never appeared so much of a 
reality, a present reality. Never did the glories of 
heaven so powerfully possess the minds of the few 
who stood around this departing brother, as at the 
moment when we believed he awoke, from utter 
unconsciousness, to the enjoyment of his Savior's 
perfect likeness and fruition. Oh, how solemn was 
the place. We felt that the King of saints and His 
ministering angels were with us ; and as we com- 
mitted the spirit in silence to the favor of its cove- 
nant God, a thrill of rapture chased away the an- 
guish with which we had been oppressed. One of 
our number was the bereaved companion whom he 
held most dear in life, and whose delicate frame and 
sensitive heart were wonderfully sustained in this 
hour of overpowering sadness, and overpowering 
joy. Another was a friend, who had ministered 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 119 

most kindly to his wants, and from beneath whose 
hospitable roof he took his heavenward flight. God 
grant that we may all live under the impressions of 
that hour. Then shall we not live in vain. 

" Mr. Burn was the son of Major General Andrew 
Burn, whose interesting memoirs are before the 
Christian public. Like Henry Martyn, his chief in- 
ducement in accepting a chaplaincy to the East, was 
the desire of usefulness among the heathen. He 
had a considerable acquaintance with two of the 
languages of the country, and wrote several Chris- 
tian works in one of them. May his example stim- 
ulate many who occupy similar stations in India, 
and beyond the Ganges, and whose influence and 
exertions are much needed for the conversion of the 
heathen nations.'' 

After the decease of Mr. Burn, Mr. Abeel occu- 
pied his place as the chaplain at Singapore for more 
than five months. But he still made the work of 
the missionary the paramount object of his efforts. 

May 26, 1833, he writes : — " Since I have been 
at Singapore, I have aimed at supplying the vacant 
chaplaincy, preaching twice on the Sabbath, and once 
on a week evening, besides the missionary prayer- 
meetings, and extraordinary services. A few, I 
thankfully believe, have been regenerated; others 
have been considerably enlightened, and I hope will 
be led to a saving knowledge of the truth. Besides 
this, I have continued the study of the Chinese, and 
commenced the Malay ; have attempted to supply 
the whole place with Scriptures and religious books ; 



120 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

but, from all these engagements, I have been obliged 
to desist, for want of health/' 

His short ministry at Singapore as chaplain, was 
very successful. The death of Mr. Burn, and some 
other providences of an equally solemn nature, had 
arrested the attention of the people ; and he endeav- 
ored to improve them to spiritual edification. Some 
were brought to a knowledge of the truth as it is in 
Jesus, especially among the higher classes, who 
were able to exert a powerful influence in behalf of 
true religion. He mentions the success of the Gos- 
pel in a letter written at this time. 

" Singapore, Feb. 14, 1833. 
" I have no small reason to believe that this letter 
will prove less welcome than myself; but I have 
been disappointed by a peculiar dispensation of Di- 
vine Providence, and as the Lord has thus expressed 
his will, ' what am I that I should resist it V It was 
our plan that Mr. Burn, Mrs. Burn, and myself (the 
two former being the Chaplain of Singapore and his 
lady), were to embark for England in the same ves- 
sel ; we were waiting for a good opportunity, when 
Mr. B., whose health appeared slowly recovering, 
relapsed and died. Seldom have I been so much 
affected at any event. He was one whom I ad- 
mired and loved vastly. We were congenial spirits, 
together much of our time, and looking forward 
with joy to the hope of mutual improvement and 
enjoyment upon the passage. While waiting for 
the opportunity I found my health sufficiently im- 
proved to preach, and consequently helped to supply 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 121 

his pulpit every Sunday. There were some signal 
events of Providence, which occurred in such strik- 
ing correspondence with the subjects preached 
upon, that the people, or many of them, became im- 
pressed with the necessity of changing their mode 
of life ; perhaps previous impressions w r ere revived. 
It was this that made me hesitate, even at that time 
when we thought of going, whether the place should 
be left under such circumstances. I determined to 
leave the decision of my duty on this point to the 
Lord ; and now, the removal of my beloved bro- 
ther, and the interest existing among the people in 
regard to their own salvation, have determined my 
mind in regard to present duty. I would not have 
you believe there is anything like what has been 
so frequently witnessed in America lately. Even 
the word ' revival', would probably frighten not a 
few. There is scarcely anything to revive, as but 
little that ever had life has been able to survive the 
ravages and dominion of spiritual death in these re- 
gions. But, blessed be the Lord, a few have been 
awakened to their spiritual interests, who scarcely 

gave the subject a thought before. Mr. , who 

was very kind to me when here before, but who 
was then a proud profligate character, has become, 
I verily believe, an humble disciple of the meek and 
lowly Jesus. I am living with him at present, and 
hope to derive benefit from his profession, while, 
with the Lord's blessing, I may impart as well as 
receive. There is considerable opposition to the 
preaching. 

" At first I was surprised and somewhat grieved 

6 



122 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

to find so much admiration. The novelty of bold, 
extempore speaking, which they had seldom heard, 
called forth this ; now, they forget the style of ad- 
dress, and look at the subject. Oh, if there were 
many prayers and better means, I should hope for 
better things. The Lord in mercy convert all who 
are impressed with the truth, and impress all the 
careless. When some few weeks or months have 
rolled by, I shall be able to write you more fully." 

The following note, found among his papers, was 
received just before his departure from Singapore, 
from one who then found peace in believing. 

"I humbly beseech Almighty God, for Christ's 
sake, to forgive my stubborn opposition to His divine 
truth for so long a period : and praise His holy name 
that in compassion to my soul, He sent you, my best 
friend, to be an instrument of His gracious mercy in 
awakening my mind to the importance of the relig- 
ion of Christ Jesus. May the Spirit of the true 
God long continue to bless your labors, and may 
you find your reward among the saints in heaven. 
May Christ forgive my ungrateful opposition to His 
cause when so often and so earnestly set forth by 
you ; and if it is the will of Jehovah we should meet 
no more on earth, may I, through the Redeemer's 
saving mercy, be allowed to greet you the first in 
another and better world. Adieu." 

Such instances of gratitude for spiritual favors 
are indeed cheering to the heart of the ambassador 
of Christ ; and cases of the same kind are abundant 
among the number of those who were brought to 
the Savior through his instrumentality. 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 123 

His strength again failed under the pressure of 
multiplied labors, and he found that he could expect 
no permanent benefit, unless he sought another and 
more congenial climate. His relief was only tem- 
porary when passing from one place to another, and 
he determined to sail for America by the way of 
England. 

Accordingly, he embarked on the 25th day of 
May, 1833, for London, in the packet Cambridge, 
a vessel supplied with every convenience for the 
comfort of an invalid — affording accommodations 
which the state of his health demanded, and which 
could not be obtained in merchant vessels sailing 
directly to the United States. 

During th& time embraced in the events occupy- 
ing this chapter, the religious diary of Mr. Abeel 
tells of severe spiritual trials, and often of depres- 
sion of spirits, and powerful temptations. He could 
not always preserve his accustomed tone of relig- 
ious feeling, and often he mourned the hidings of 
God's countenance, and felt the power of trial. It 
would require a skilful and experienced Christian, to 
analyze all his character as displayed in the feelings 
recorded in this diary. Every child of God can 
learn from them his privileges and duties, and be en- 
couraged by his attainments, and hence they are 
useful and worthy of record ; but none but an Elder 
in Israel, could fully enter into his spirit. The rec- 
ord is presented as essential to a complete view of 
his Christian character, and for the benefit of all, 
who like him, would fight the good fight of faith 
filled with lofty hopes and burning zeal, and be fol- 



124 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

lowers of him as he was of Christ. One truth is 
worthy of notice, that while he experienced all 
these changes in his spiritual feelings, the journal 
of his labors contains records of constant exertion 
for the glory of God. He resolved to struggle on, 
whatever might be his discouragements, or the de- 
pression of his spirits. He never lowered the stand- 
ard of his duty, but desired to do the will of God, 
knowing that His blessing did not depend on the 
strength or weakness of the instrumentality, but 
only on His own good pleasure, who guides all things 
in infinite wisdom for His own glory. 

The following extracts extend through the time 
embraced in this chapter : — 

" April 22. — On Tuesday evening embarked in a 
China junk, for Siam. Saw much of the Lord's 
goodness in ordering events before I left. As soon 
as objects which seemed somewhat important were 
accomplished, the junk (for which I was waiting in 
daily expectation of sailing), was declared ready for 
sea. Since we sailed, have had some delightful im- 
pressions of the love of the Father, and His Son 
Jesus Christ. When my soul is healthful, this sub- 
ject is a theme of ever new and amazing contem- 
plation. Oh, if creature love has the effect we 
sometimes witness, what must be the fulness of the 
love of Christ. I desire no other heaven. There 
can be none of equal or comparable delight, I find 
the Song of Solomon peculiarly adapted to my best 
frames of mind. It has often refreshed me. In 
the same relation between creatures, there is a dan- 
ger of having the mind so much engrossed with 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 125 

mutual affection as to impair the love of Christ in 
the soul ; but here we can say with Isaiah, ' Thy 
Maker is thy husband, the Lord of Hosts is his 
name ; and thy Redeemer the Holy one of Israel, 
the God of the whole earth shall he be called/ Let 
the affection rise to transport, yet, the higher the 
transport, the more consistent with reason, gratitude, 
and duty. I have been struck and benefited by an 
idea met with in reading — 'Would you rejoice in 
being the instrument of placing one of the many 
crowns upon the brow of your glorified Redeemer 
Christ ?' What a motive to every exertion, for one 
who feels his obligations to his beloved Lord. Jesus 
grant thy sinful servant this unspeakable privilege. 

" May 8. — Still on the passage. Temporal bless- 
ings exceed my expectations. Mind was dull, but 
is more lively. No friend to divert my thoughts 
and affections from Jesus. None to exchange an 
idea with on spiritual things, or any subject of real 
importance. Spirit of prayer at times, for every 
creature living, especially for relatives and friends 
individually, who often detain me long and delight- 
fully in my Father's communion. Am struck with 
the wretched condition of the heathen. Feel deeply 
my unfitness for my great work in every respect. 
Still cheering views of the eternal rest. 

" May 27. — Again on heathen land, engaged as 
before. Though alone as to the presence of man, 
feel the presence of that Friend that sticketh closer 
than a brother, and know very little of a sense of 
loneliness. For a day or two, have been quite ab- 
sorbed in wonder, at the opening of the first chapter 



126 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

of Ephesians to my mind. For these delightful evi- 
dences of spiritual life, and means of advancing in 
that life, I would praise the blessed Spirit to whose 
condescension I am infinitely indebted. Have been 
endeavoring to search my heart, to see whether I 
keep anything back from the Savior. I hope the 
surrender is unreserved, though sins and infirmities 
are very distressing. Am at times cast down with 
a constant sense of unfitness for my great work, and 
an idea of the slow progress I make in every qual- 
ification. I do not believe that any one has ever 
been placed under similar circumstances, without a 
better preparation for his work. Knowledge of their 
languages very deficient. 

" June 3. — Body again affected, and mind sympa- 
thetic. To-day considerably relieved. Whether 
climate, or want of active exercise, riding, or want 
of objects for the diversion and recreation of the 
mind, I know not. Have made some change in 
mode of living as a trial, upon which I would look 
for the Savior's blessing. I believe one important 
object is to reduce my pride. A want of ability for 
much application keeps me ignorant, and a sense of 
this ignorance leaves no reason or desire to look 
upon myself as anything. I feel happy in throwing 
myself upon the Savior's promises. If He is with 
me, and my steps are ordered by Him, what more 
do I want. 

" 17. — The past has been a week of bodily de- 
pression, and sympathy of spirit. I am distressed to 
find, that at such times my thoughts should not run 
upon spiritual things, as in a natural channel. It is 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 127 

clearly evident that such reflections demand exer- 
tion, and at such times the whole man shrinks from 
exertion of any kind/' 

" July 8. — The past has been a pleasant, and I 
believe a profitable week. Have been enabled to 
devote much time to spiritual exercises, and the ad- 
vantages are evident. Heaven has appeared nearer, 
and its glories more attractive. Was called to see 
a poor heathen just passing into eternity. Was dis- 
tressed at his situation, (in gross darkness,) but 
thrilled at the idea of changing places, and being in 
the same dying condition, so near my Father's pres- 
ence. Considerable encouragement in the mission. 
Oh for better qualifications. Health somewhat im- 
proved. See more and more the wisdom of improv- 
ing each day, without looking to the perad ventures 
of the future ; * For the morrow shall take thought 
for the things of itself.' 

"22. — Much time and attention still given to 
spiritual exercises. Aim and attainments almost as 
widely different as extremes can be. The more I 
experience, the more I am impressed with the duty 
and happiness of a life of heaven upon earth. Am 
quite shocked at the inconsistency of vital godliness 
with anything short of this. Yet, alas ! how many 
obstacles and enemies are opposed to such a hal- 
lowed life. Rutherford's 'Prison Enjoyments' shows 
what might be experienced, and what ought to be 
aimed at. 

" 26. — The greatness of God expressed in the 
striking language of the Prophet — ' Behold the na- 
tions are as a drop of the bucket,' and the connected 



128 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

verses — detained me in profitable reflection two or 
three days. How encouraging and animating to 
our weak faith, when overwhelmed with a sense of 
the grandeur of Jehovah, to remember, that 'God 
is love.' All that infinite nature is one infinite at- 
tribute — love. Oh what a source of pure, inexhaust- 
ible happiness for the glorified spirit, both in the in- 
vestigation of the nature, and the direction of this 
love. Another portion of Scripture, which it ap- 
peared almost impossible to leave, is the first chapter 
of Colossians, especially that part which refers to 
the illustrious conqueror. What a victory ! What 
weapons ! ' And having made peace through the 
blood of the cross,' &c. Millions of captives torn 
from hell, and drawn by that love to eternal glory, 
shall cease not to celebrate the triumphs of their 
Conqueror. 

11 September 22. — The last has been a week of 
peculiar dulness. There are times when it seems 
improper to say I languish, for that implies strength ; 
or to say I am an infant, for that lives. I appear 
truly dead. Then I feel my especial need of the 
Spirit, of the free sovereign grace of God. Then 
my mind is the thorough-fare, and too frequently the 
resting-place of every unprofitable worldly thought. 
It is misery indeed to endure the absence of Him 
whom my soul loves. No worldly scheme or hap- 
piness can prove the least substitute for this enjoy- 
ment. Though the mind flies from object to object, 
it only wearies itself, and like the dove finds no rest. 
Oh, Jesus ! return. Other trials I can endure when 
thou art with me, but thine absence is insupportable. 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 129 

"November 27. — Many changes since I wrote. 
Have again left Siam, and returned to Singapore. 
Very little spirituality of mind. Oh, what depravity 
I discover in my heart. Such a want of love to my 
Savior and brethren. Such a want of interest in 
the successful instrumentality of those whose honor 
I should prefer to my own. Such pride, envy, 
worldly-mindedness. Oh, my God, what shall the 
end of these things be ? I want to be moulded anew 
in my Savior's image, to emerge from the world 
and dwell in another, even a spiritual one. I groan 
and sigh, Jesus make me holy and fit for my work. 
Oh, how little profitable communion there is among 
the expectants of glory. We talk rationally, but 
much is wanting. Our conversation results in but 
little holiness. Lord, make me useful to .my breth- 
ren. What a difficult thing it is to preserve genuine 
zeal in the Lord's service. What constant watch- 
fulness, self-examination, love to our brethren, entire 
deadness to the world, and heartfelt humility, are 
required to be cherished. Upon such a soil, and 
such only, zeal, pure and approved in the sight of 
God, can flourish. 

"January 1, 1834. — Another year passed, com- 
menced — still spared. In reviewing the year I hope 
I can see some little improvement. In what ? Cer- 
tainly nothing very evident — perhaps nothing at all. 
I believe a little has been attempted for Jesus, but 
Oh, how little ! Part of the time considerable en- 
joyment of religion, heavenly-mindedness — part stu- 
pidity. Not so much from neglecting the means of 
grace, (I mean the principal of them — private„devo- 

6* 



130 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

tion,) as, I scarcely know what : a withdrawing of 
the Spirit's influence from my heart. I do long for 
perfect holiness and fitness for my work. Oh, my 
Father, for thine own sake forgive the past. And 
now I am where I have often been — in much uncer- 
tainty of the future. At Singapore, hesitating about 
my course, whether to return home for a time. My 
prayer is for light, and I feel like praying in faith. 
Are there not many promises ? I fear that my mind 
may be too much disposed to return, and yet I have 
no definite prospect of happiness before my mind. 
Still who knows the heart ? Lord, my Father, thou 
who searchest the heart, instruct me and teach me 
in the way I should go. 

"March 31. — Mind has been in a calm and happy 
frame, disposed to relish the word ; and absorbed in 
wonder at its most wonderful theme — Jesus — re- 
demption. Have enjoyed some impression of my 
relation to the Savior, and dependence upon him 
as a co-worker, ' a star in his right hand.' With 
what encouraging perseverance we can preach, 
when we remember what we are, instruments in 
Christ's hand — what our object is, His glory — how 
that object can be promoted, by His power — who is 
principally concerned in its promotion, Himself — 
what he has promised in regard to our labors, ' My 
word shall not return unto me void,' — and in what 
light God in mercy regards us, if faithful, ' We are 
unto God a sweet savor of Christ, in them that are 
saved and in them that perish? Such views com- 
pose and sustain the mind, when our work appears 
to be hindered by those events which are beyond 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 131 

our control. With such things our instrumentality 
has nothing to do, and in regard to them we have 
nothing to say or think. Whatever may be effected 
through effort or prayer, it is our duty to attempt ; 
but when our vigorous efforts and most importu- 
nate prayers are unsuccessful, it would be sinful 
to despond or imagine we may not be acceptable, 
though Israel be not gathered, as though every pur- 
pose of Infinity was found to square with our views 
and wishes. Have received a loud call from the 
Board to return home, but wait to know the Lord's 
pleasure. 

"April 10. — Jesus is everything to my soul. Oh, 
what a wonderful subject, a wonder almost equalled 
by my indifference to it. He is my Creator, my Pre- 
server, and my Lord ; my Friend and my Brother, 
my Husband, my Head, my food and drink, the gar- 
ment of my soul, nay my life. He is to me, what 
everything else is, what every one else is." 



CHAPTER VII. 

Mr. Abeel started from the East for London on 
the 25th of May, 1833. His passage occupied five 
months, during which time his health rapidly im- 
proved. We find the following reflections in his 
diary recorded after a few days of his voyage had 
elapsed, in reference to his past course and present 
position. 

"June 9, 1833. — How short has been my mission- 
ary career. I have done very little in the way of 
direct labor. I thankfully believe, more, indirectly. 
I hope others will be stirred up to attempt what my 
health forbad, and what may much more redound to 
the glory of God than the labors of a single indi- 
vidual. Why my health has declined, I have no 
right to know. If for the punishment of my sel- 
fishness and unfaithfulness, the Lord in mercy for- 
give and save me. If for correction, may every 
gracious object of my Father's mercy be gained. 
If to remove me to other scenes — may I be much 
better fitted for the future than I have been for the 
past. If for death — may its fear, and sting, and 
dreadful pangs be mercifully taken away. I have 
many advantages for the cultivation of living piety. 
Excellent accommodations, much leisure, and good 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 133 

books ; but find my body something of a clog — dull 
and drowsy, even when the most animating subjects 
are under consideration. Have been refreshed with 
thoughts of my Father's compassion and love, and 
of my Savior's wondrous sacrifice, especially ' to 
give His life a ransom for many.' " 

The time consumed in this voyage, was a season 
of great enjoyment to his soul. The silence of the 
sea, and freedom from the pressing cares of mission- 
ary life, afforded him much opportunity for that spir- 
itual communion in which he so greatly delighted. 
That he improved it, will be seen by the following 
extracts. 

"June 2. — A short week has hastened away since 
we sailed. My mind through much of the week has 
been composed, and, I trust, resigned to living or 
dying. Notwithstanding a deep sense of my sins, 
my confidence in the Savior is unshaken. Jesus 
prepare me for thy glory. 

" June 23. — How admirably the Sabbath is adapt- 
ed to holy joy and praise, and all the nobler exer- 
cises of the sanctified heart. Oh, what a day of 
hallowed rejoicing, its associations how animating. 
Jesus our Life arose, His stupendous work accom- 
plished, never again to suffer ; but, triumphant over 
all his foes, to reign until every object of His media- 
torial kingdom is gained, and every one of His 
redeemed family exalted to the perfection of His 
likeness, and the participation of His joy. Can 
there be a communion of feeling and interest with 
the Divine Redeemer, and no rejoicing upon this 
day? And then, too, the prospect of an eternal 



134 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

Sabbath, of its deliverance from sin, temptation, 
infirmity, indisposition, inability to do good, prone- 
ness and power to do evil, weariness, dulness, vex- 
ing sights and sounds, uncongenial companions, and 
dissatisfaction with self. If existence could be con- 
tinued in the absence of these evils, it would be ex- 
ceedingly desirable ; add to this, the unimagined 
and unimaginable enjoyment of heaven — the high- 
est perfection of the spirit with the greatest capa- 
bilities for comprehending, admiring, loving, and 
serving God and the Lamb — continually transported 
with the smiles of His favor, the fulness of His joy, 
and the possession of His likeness ; — overflowing 
with gratitude for the wonders of redemption, and 
the leadings of Providence, — in sweetest co-opera- 
tion with unnumbered millions of the most excel- 
lent, loving, and beloved companions — these consti- 
tute a portion of the blessings which make up 
heaven : but how small a part do v^e know ! These 
should awaken the soul to praise and joyfulness 
upon this day." 

" September 8. — The past week has been a season 
of peculiar spiritual enjoyment. My heart has been 
overflowing with the goodness of the Lord. At 
these times of the Savior's special visitation, how 
ready the soul is for every duty of devotion. The 
word is like oil, which causes the fire to blaze, when- 
ever it is applied. The earth loses its attraction ; 
and all its creatures, inanimate objects, and events 
are converted into mirrors, to reflect the infinite 
excellence of a faithful Creator. As the eye glances 
over the past, 'discriminating love* appears in- 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 135 

scribed on every object it meets. Rapture is in 
every thought of the transmundane future. Praise 
and prayer, and glowing contemplation, become the 
very element of the soul. There is a spirit to at- 
tempt every labor, to conquer every difficulty, to 
welcome every trial. In a word, there is a heart 
for everything that comes from God, or partakes of 
God, or leads to God. ' God in Christ reconciling 
the world/ is then, and it ever must remain, the 
theme beyond all conception. Am passing the lati- 
tude of my West India friends, and have been inter- 
ceding for them at a throne of grace." 

During the greater part of this voyage, he was 
engaged on Sabbath, in preaching the Gospel to the 
passengers and crew of the ship, and in religious 
conversation. Nor were his efforts in vain, for we 
find it recorded in his diary, that there had been 
two or three conversions during the passage. Thus 
the Lord gave^him success wherever he went, 
whether among the heathen, or those who enjoyed 
the means of grace. 

He reached England October 21st, 1833. He 
thus writes to his friends from London : — " With 
great pleasure I inform you that we have arrived, 
and have once more escaped the dangers of the sea. 
About a week ago we made the land ; and the day 
before yesterday took the steamboat about forty 
miles below London, and arrived in the evening. I 
have the greatest reason for gratitude. My health 
is greatly improved, and all the alarming symptoms 
are mitigated. Another source of gratitude, is the 
deliverance we have had from great apparent dan- 



136 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

ger, during a gale encountered off the Western 
Islands. # # * # 

" I am very busy, delivering letters of introduc- 
tion, &c, &c. With kindest love to all, and many 
prayers that we may all meet as Christians. Yours 
most affectionately, D. A." 

He soon formed many interesting acquaintances, 
enjoying religious intercourse with a keen relish, 
increased by the circumstance of his having been 
so long in a great measure deprived of it. He thus 
expresses the delight which he experienced : " Dec. 
18th. — Arrived in England a month and a half ago. 
Found hosts of Christian friends ready to welcome 
me to their houses and hearts. Have made many 
delightful acquaintances. Much overcome by the 
difference, the infinite difference, between heathen- 
and Christian lands. The very sound of another's 
voice in prayer like music. Have heard much good 
preaching of different denominations — all one in 
Christ." % 

After remaining for a short time in London, he 
was advised by his physicians to continue in Eu- 
rope, and to defer crossing the Atlantic until the 
winter had passed. He followed this advice ; and 
in December, passed over to the Continent, and 
journeyed to Paris, where he remained for a con- 
siderable time preaching and sustaining missionary 
meetings among the Protestant residents. 

He was in Paris at the commencement of the 
new year, and we find this record of his reflections 
on the events of the year past. 

"January 1, 1834. — I am again brought to the 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 137 

close and the commencement of another vear. The 
rapidity of the last annual period astounds me. My 
thoughts are thrown powerfully back upon the 
event which occurred nearly a year ago, and I can 
scarcely imagine that my beloved Brother Burn 
has been in eternity one year. I remember my 
emotions and desires on that solemn occasion ; but 
alas ! I do not find those fruits, which I hoped would 
result from the event. The first five months were 
spent principally in Singapore. I hope and believe 
good was done. The Lord taught me some lessons 
which should have kept me in the dust all my life. 
I saw the folly of regarding myself as anything in 
the kingdom of Christ, and was forcibly reminded 
to put no confidence in an arm of flesh. At the 
close of May, I embarked, in great weakness, for 
England. All the future was like midnight. The 
next five months were spent at sea. My fears 
were dissipated, my hopes more than realized. God 
spared me, gave me back my life from the grave, 
and blessed my soul with the joys of His commun- 
ion. Here too, there is reason to believe the Lord 
made me useful. To Him be all the glory, for He 
showed me His power as separate as possible from 
my feeble efforts. The remainder of the year has 
been passed in England and France. On my re- 
turn, my mind was greatly excited in the enjoyment 
of Christian communion, and the ordinances of re- 
ligion. I fear it was not profitable ; as since that, 
there has been a mournful state of mental distraction 
and diversion from heaven. Is this to be the effect 
of changing scenes ? Shall I have no power to re- 



138 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

sist these temptations ? Jesus forbid it. Grant me 
thy power — forgive all my sins — sprinkle my con- 
science from dead works — and let the opening year 
prove much more profitable to me, and witness 
much more love, and zeal, and self-denial in me, 
than any preceding period. For forgiveness, pres- 
ervation, every motion of spiritual life, every ray 
of heavenly wisdom, everything acceptable to Thee, 
and beneficial to myself and others, I am totally, 
and must be constantly dependent upon Thee. Oh, 
what shall occur during this year ?" 

From Paris he journeyed through different parts 
of the Continent, diffusing missionary information, 
and at the same time recruiting his physical powers. 
He visited Holland, and parts of Prussia, Germany, 
and Switzerland. In Holland, he expected to trans- 
act business in reference to the connection of his 
own church at home with its parent, in the work of 
Missions ; but having arrived before the meeting of 
the Synod of the Church of Holland, and not being 
able to delay in his arrangements, he was in some 
degree disappointed. 

He describes in a letter, his travels through 
France and Switzerland. " More than a fortnight 
has elapsed since my departure from London ; since 
which I have visited, very hastily, the principal parts 
of Holland, and some of the most interesting sec- 
tions of Germany. My object was to form some 
kind of a connection between the churches at home 
and in Holland, with a view of co-operating in 
Foreign Missions. As there has been no meeting of 
Synod here since I arrived, and as there is no prob- 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 139 

ability of convening a meeting before next month, 
(July,) it is quite impossible to say how far I shall 
succeed in my plans. The Dutch have almost for- 
gotten that there is a church in America, called by 
their own name. Still I have reason to hope, that, 
as I have engaged some of the chief and the best 
men to assist, something will be accomplished. Be- 
ing so near many of the most interesting and talked- 
of objects on the Continent, I concluded to spend a 
few more days, in gratifying curiosity; especially 
as it could be done with evident advantage, both to 
my health and my higher pursuits. I have sailed 
up the celebrated Rhine, passed through parts of 
Prussia and Germany, and expect to reach Switzer- 
land to-morrow. I calculate on as rapid movements 
as possible or consistent. Being in the vicinity of 
the celebrated mountains of Switzerland, I hope to 
see them all, spend a few days in Geneva and other 
parts, and then proceed as quickly as possible to 
Liverpool to embark. I fear it will be nearly the 
middle of July before this can be done. I find 
friends wonderfully provided for me, wherever I go. 
I am now in company with a young man whom I 
met in the steamboat on the Rhine, and with whom 
I hope to proceed to Geneva. By the time of my 
return, I shall have traveled considerably, and I 
hope with profit. This letter I am writing piece- 
meal. We are at this moment in a small town near 
the borders of Switzerland, where we see none but 
those rough-looking Germans, importations of which 
I have seen, when a little fellow, in New Brunswick. 
They appear to me as filthy as possible. Men, 



140 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

women, horses, dogs, everything together and much 
alike. They form a most striking contrast to the 
ever scrubbing and washing Hollanders. Crosses 
with images are stuck up in every direction. Cath- 
olicism, of course, reigns where these are seen ; but 
this is not the case with all the states of Germany. 
Still my interest is considerably diminished by the 
strong desire to see you all, and commence my im- 
portant duties at home. I am now writing at Basil, 
the seat of the most celebrated missionary institution 
in Europe. I have received the greatest kindness 
and hospitality from all, and am staying in the Mis- 
sion-House." 

He also recorded these incidents in his private 
diary. 

16 July 27 ', 1834. — Have wandered through many 
countries since the last date. Visited much of Hol- 
land, many places in Germany and Prussia, and 
some most interesting portions of Switzerland. 
Have been quite overwhelmed with the wonders of 
the Lord in the works of creation. Oh the grandeur 
of my God and Savior! Have made numbers of 
most interesting Christian acquaintances, and been 
profited by their spirit and devotedness. Have 
awakened considerable attention and Christian sym- 
pathy, in behalf of China, and neighboring regions. 
To the Lord, the source of all good, be all the glory. 
Have returned sick, and been detained in London 
under the hands of the physician. By the Lord's 
especial kindness, have aided in forming a society 
for female education in China and the surrounding 
countries. An auspicious commencement. Bodily 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 141 

weakness very great, and the future uncertain. Oh 
how necessary to be brought to a frequent pause. 
I fear that I seldom live as I ought, except when I 
feel the sentence of death in myself. Left London 
yesterday, and am now in Birmingham. Hope to 
be at sea before next Sabbath. How much I feel 
attached to dear friends, with whom I have been 
passing much time. To-day, thoughts of my God 
most cheering. My Father, my Brother ! what more 
can I wish or have. Alleine's ' Heaven Opened' 
shows impressively what "a covenant God and Sa- 
vior He is to those who believe. I am convinced, 
and have long been persuaded, that one most im- 
portant means of grace, and comfort, and transport, 
is having these subjects frequently before, the mind. 
Under any circumstances, we may ask ourselves the 
question, What do I most desire ? Perhaps it is 
holiness — the power of resisting evil — zeal — dead- 
ness to the world — spirituality of mind — a single eye 
— a simple motive — love to every brother — and the 
death of all selfishness. Are not these things prom- 
ised ? And does not the possession of God, our Sun 
and Shield — our Portion and Rest — include these 
very blessings ? Perhaps we sigh for friendship — 
congenial, inseparable friendship. What a friend we 
have in Jesus and his Father. All the excellencies 
we most admire and desire are here, and are ours. 
Do we wish deliverance from infirmities and pains, 
and support and direction under them ? Or are we 
sighing for a better state of things without us ? God 
is our refuge now ; and in the best time will remove 
us to a society where nothing will be wanting to 



142 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

answer our strongest desires, but much enjoyed to 
exceed them all. A few such questions and con- 
siderations will often raise the soul to heaven ; and 
the more frequently the infinite goodness of God our 
Portion, and the infinite fullness of Jesus our Advo- 
cate, are contemplated, the more happy and holy 
must we be on earth, and the more willing and 
ready to leave the world." 

Wherever he went, he endeavored to extend in- 
formation in reference to that portion of the heathen 
world, in which a part of his life had been spent. 
He met with much success in all these efforts, and 
much interest was excited by his representations of 
the subject in France and Switzerland, as well as in 
England. 

He returned to England, July 25, and travelled 
through different parts where there were objects 
worthy of inspection. He preached at London, 
Birmingham, and Edinburgh. The following letter 
has been received since his decease, from a lady, 
under whose roof he passed much of his time while 
in London. 

" Twelve years have elapsed since his brief so- 
journ in this land ; but none who had the privilege 
of knowing him then, are likely to forget him, for 
he was indeed ' a burning and a shining light.' He 
came to us immediately on his arrival from the 
East, worn by disease, and apparently disqualified 
for active service. Such was his prevailing spirit- 
uality of mind and devotedness to the Redeemer's 
cause, that it was impossible to be within the circle 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 143 

of his influence without deriving advantage from 
it. There was nothing austere, narrow-minded, or 
extravagant in his religion. There was a beautiful 
symmetry, a holiness, refinement, and tenderness 
about it which struck the most ungodly. Every 
one felt that he was in earnest, that he had a deep 
enjoyment of divine things, and an aptitude to seize 
upon every occasion of usefulness, far beyond what 
is usually attained. There was in his character 
that combination of faith, hope, and charity, which 
the Apostle Paul so well delineates ; and as it re- 
garded his daily life, it might indeed be said that he 
'walked in the Spirit.' During his abode in our 
family, his physical debility and suffering were, at 
times, great ; but he knew how to rejoice in tribula- 
tion, and could say from the heart, ' The will of the 
Lord be done.' Often after seasons of pain and 
exhaustion, he would ask one of us to read him a 
portion of the Bible ; and as he became interested in 
the subject, his spirits gradually revived. It was his 
custom, while rising of a morning, to sing a hymn ; 
and he always left his Bible open on his dressing- 
table, that whenever he went into his room some 
passage of divine truth might arrest his eye. At 
the breakfast-table he generally asked what we had 
been reading in our closets ; and, whether others 
were prepared or not, he was always ready to fur- 
nish his quota of spiritual entertainment. This plan 
greatly interested the younger members of our fam- 
ily, and even the servants lingered in the room at 
meal-times, to catch some gracious word that fell 
from his lips. During his voyage from China, he 



144 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

had been useful to three persons on board the vessel; 
and whilst he was in England, the same success 
attended his efforts to win souls to Jesus. To more 
than one individual in our circle he became pecul- 
iarly endeared as a father in Christ ; and to others 
he lent the helping hand, and was regarded by them, 
in every sense, as a brother and friend. I might 
introduce many touching incidents, which are en- 
graven on their hearts, but I forbear. I would, 
however, notice one point of no small importance, 
as accounting for his remarkable success. He was 
unusually devoted to prayer. He could indeed say, 
' For this thing I prayed :' for there was nothing 
vague and indefinite in his petitions. Usually he 
spent some time in his chamber towards noon, 
for the purpose of remembering certain individuals 
on whose conversion his heart was set; and at other 
times, he would unite with Christian friends for the 
same purpose. He loved to speak of heaven ; for 
it was a theme on which he was peculiarly at home. 
His favorite view of it, was that of being with Christ, 
to behold His glory. At that time he scarcely ex- 
pected to reach America, much less to return to 
China ; but he was always urging upon us to do our 
utmost for that vast land. His representations of 
the state of the heathen, and of the responsibility of 
the Christian Church, were most solemn and affect- 
ing. He had no sympathy with a hollow, half- 
hearted attachment to the cause of Christ. His 
had never been the ' middle walk of Christianity ;' 
having himself forsaken all for Christ, he could, and 
did insist in every case, upon the same surrender. 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 145 

Not in private alone, but at the anniversary of our 
Bible Society at Exeter Hall, he came forward, 
notwithstanding his weakness, and challenged the 
young students in our colleges to join the missionary 
host. I think I see and hear him now, turning to 
them, and saying with unusual energy, ' And who 
has given you a dispensation to remain at home, 
when the whole world is calling so loudly for as- 
sistance V 

" Whilst Mr. Abeel was in this country he visited 
distinguished characters, — ministers and others, of 
all religious persuasions, taking little notice of their 
distinctions, so that they were sound in the great 
principles of the Gospel. In every true Christian 
he recognized a brother, a child of God, an heir of 
glory ; and this was at all times enough to ensure 
his affectionate sympathy and co-operation. His 
language seemed to be, whenever a discordant note 
was struck — ' Dear friends, the world is perishing ; 
let us first look to its salvation, and then settle our 
differences.' Before he quitted England, he united 
with the Rev. Baptist Noel, and a few ladies, in 
forming the Society for promoting Female Educa- 
tion in China and the East, The first appeal was 
drawn up by him, and the profits of his missionary 
narrative were devoted to its support. Nearly forty 
ladies, of different denominations, have been sent 
out as the result of this effort : and much assistance 
has been rendered in other ways, towards the en- 
couragement of mission schools. 

" As the time drew near for his departure, our in- 
tercourse became increasingly serious and prayer^ 

7 



146 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

ful. We felt it very unlikely that we should meet 
again in this world ; and from the maturity of his 
Christian character, it appeared as if he might soon 
be summoned to his heavenly home. Never can I 
forget the energy with which he continually spoke 
of the believer's privileges and responsibilities. In- 
deed his whole residence under our roof, formed an 
appropriate comment on that passage, ' Be not for- 
getful to entertain strangers, for thereby some have 
entertained angels unawares.' The last sentence 
uttered at the moment of separation, deserves to be 
recorded ; it was this — ' Farewell ! while we seek 
with increasing diligence the salvation of others, 
may we never be guilty of neglecting our own 
souls.' Such a caution is indeed peculiarly appro- 
priate to the period in which we live ; and to those, 
who, from their situation in the church, are neces- 
sarily much engrossed by all that is going on." 

In August, he sailed for America, where he ar- 
rived in September. It was a season of joy, when 
he was permitted again to meet in the body those 
whom he loved. This delight was only alloyed by 
the recollection, that the failure of his health and 
strength was the cause of his return. 

Immediately after his arrival in the United States, 
Mr. Abeel commenced his labors in behalf of that 
field of operations in which he had always been en- 
gaged. As his strength allowed, he went from one 
place to another, preaching the Gospel, and forming 
associations for the purpose of regular contributions 
toward the cause of foreign missions. He visited 
the principal pities of New England in the course 



MExMOIR OP DAVID ABEEL. 147 

of these efforts. In January, 1835, he left the north 
for a warmer climate ; designing to prosecute his 
labors in that part of the country where he would 
be able, at the same time, to cherish his bodily 
strength. The following letter, written at this time, 
will show, that, although he was then in a critical 
state of health, he did not in any way spare himself 
in his exertions for the perishing heathen. 

" Near Richmond, Virginia, February 27th, 1835. 
" I wrote you from Washington, and expected to 
find a reply at Richmond, but was disappointed. 
Perhaps I may receive one on my return to that 
city. Since I wrote, I have been travelling almost 
incessantly. I visited Alexandria, and held a meet- 
ing — thence to Fredericksburgh — thence to Char- 
lottesville, the former residence of Mr. Jefferson — 
thence to Richmond, whither I am now returning — 
and thence to Union Seminary, Prince Edward's 
county, Virginia. The stages are so infrequent and 
loaded, that I have not been able to return to Rich- 
mond, to fulfil my appointments there. I am now 
writing in a miserable old tavern, forty miles from 
Richmond ; where I came to-day, hoping to get a 
passage. But alas ! if I succeed at all, I must wait 
till to-morrow, and then take the mail cart, a ve- 
hicle on two wheels and without springs, — I fear 
without seats. Since I left Washington, my time 
has passed swiftly, and I trust profitably. The 
meetings I have appointed, have been well attended 
and interesting. A few days ago, I spent a season 
in the house of a pious lady, who has opened her 



148 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

dwelling for the education of young ladies f not 
from necessity, but to employ her leisure time and 
spacious mansion to the most advantage. Female 
education, and especially Christian education, has 
been sadly neglected in Virginia. I conversed with 
her pupils about the heathen, and about themselves, 
and the Lord appeared to bless the*efforts. Several 
of them became deeply affected in view of their 
own sinfulness, and all of their small number, with 
many sobs and tears, agreed when I left them, to 
meet me in heaven. I have seldom witnessed a 
more solemn scene. What will be the result can- 
not be definitely foreseen ; but that the solemn vow 
of many of them will be remembered and fulfilled, 
I will not hesitate to believe. 

" At Prince Edward, whence I am now returning 
to Richmond, I have had a very profitable time. 
The seminary contains upwards of twenty students, 
and the college about fifty or sixty. Three or four 
of their number are decided on becoming foreign 
missionaries, and many more have been stirred up to 
a solemn and prayerful investigation of their duty. 
Last year, four of the students from this seminary 
embarked for heathen lands. After preaching in 
the church, and in the chapel of the seminary, the 
students of the college requested me to deliver an 
address in the college, on the moral condition of 
China. The meeting was crowded, and I was en- 
abled to speak with plainness, not only on the con- 
dition of the heathen, but on the fearful responsi- 
bilities of each one of them. The Lord in mercy 
grant, that the solemn exercises of that evening 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 149 

may result in the conversion of many of their num- 
ber ; and through them, in the eternal happiness of 
many of the heathen. The intercourse with the 
professors and students of this institution has been 
delightful and edifying. I have met with several 
men of distinguished piety and excellence in Vir- 
ginia. Their example proves most influential, and 
every Christian who comes within their atmosphere, 
must feel its sanctifying tendency. Oh, how neces- 
sary is living, glowing, active godliness, to our per- 
sonal happiness, and the benefit of others. What is 
a cold external profession — ' a name to live T I be- 
lieve there is no other good influence which acts 
with such amazing power as that of vital godliness. 
How it arouses, and rebukes, and stimulates, and 
restrains. Oh, let us all strive more than ever, for 
great attainments in the divine life. Why are we 
living in Christian lands ? Why is our lot not cast 
among the heathen ? Surrounded as we all are 
with every sanctifying influence, what ought to 
prevent us from eminent sanctity. My mind has 
been much on these and similar subjects, since we 
parted. Travelling has not the effect upon me of 
which many complain. Instead of distracting my 
mind, I am now so accustomed to its vicissitudes, 
that I can employ the leisure it furnishes to much 
profit. I often enjoy riding alone, or unknown, in 
stages. It affords so much time for meditation, and 
I repeat what I have so often remarked, that noth- 
ing is more beneficial to the soul, than solemn and 
deliberate reflection. 

" I hope to-morrow to reach Richmond, where I 



150 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

shall probably spend the greater part of a week ; 
thence go to Petersburgh and Fayetteville, Raleigh 
and Columbia, in which place I hope to arrive about 
the middle of March. Whether I shall proceed im- 
mediately to Charleston, or whether I shall leave 
that place for the port of embarkation, I have not 
determined. I wish to visit as many churches and 
institutions as possible, and hope to receive advice 
at Columbia. If you have not written, or when 
you write, address to Charleston, South Carolina. 
The roads are miserable, probably six inches of 
snow on the ground." 

" Richmond, March 1. 

u Arrived here on Saturday evening, after the 
most uncomfortable ride I ever took. Forty miles 
in a cart, with a miserable seat, and still more mis- 
erable roads. Yesterday preached. A very cold 
day, and not many out. To-night will be a concert 
of prayer. To-morrow hold a meeting for ladies, 
in regard to female education in China. Thursday, 
go to Petersburgh, and thence to Columbia," &c. • 

He left a deep impression in behalf of his cher- 
ished cause wherever he preached. Much of his 
time was spent in visiting Colleges and Theological 
Seminaries, in raising the tone of piety and conse- 
cration of spirit among their members, and inciting 
all to labors in behalf of the heathen. The follow- 
ing letter has been received from a clergyman who 
was then connected with one of the seminaries 
which he visited. He records in it, the impressions 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 151 

in regard to the character and work of Mr. Abeel, 
made on his own mind in listening to his appeals, 
and conversing with him. 

" I had the pleasure of making acquaintance with 
Mr. Abeel, during a visit he made to Virginia, in the 
year 1834 or '35. I have still in my possession two 
or three letters I subsequently received from him, 
but they contain nothing of special interest. Yet I 
have thought it might not be amiss to give you some 
little information in regard to what I saw of him 
during that visit. I was then at Union Seminary ; 
and, I suppose few of those then connected with it, 
or any of the other institutions about Prince Edward 
Court House, will have forgotten to this day, the 
time spent among us by Mr. A. I well recollect the 
day that he reached the seminary. Some of us 
were in the public hall, looking at what the mail had 
brought that morning, when a stranger of genteel 
appearance presented himself at the door, and in- 
quired the way to Dr. Baxter's. We were greatly 
surprised to hear afterwards who it was ; for he had 
dropped in upon us in our quiet retreat without any 
notice of his coming — at least, without any knowl- 
edge of it on the part of the students. He spent 
but a few days with us, but they were filled up with 
labors in behalf of the cause he had so much at 
heart. Indeed I thought he labored almost beyond 
his strength ; for his health, as you know, was fee- 
ble. Besides a sermon at the college church in the 
morning, he addressed the students of the seminary 
on the afternoon of the Sabbath he was with us. 



152 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

On Monday afternoon, he addressed the students of 
Hampden Sydney College, and the night of the 
same day, visited the large female institution of 
Mr. Root, at the Court House. The impression left 
upon the institutions and the neighborhood seemed 
to be a most happy, and I believe it was not a mere 
transient one. Mr. A.'s manners were very gentle- 
manly and engaging, and I thought that he often 
rose, in his public addresses, to a high style of ora- 
tory. But his influence for good was based upon 
something more substantial than either of these. 
He manifested an ardent devotion to the cause of 
Christ and a lost world. Indeed he seemed to me 
to possess very much the kind and degree of enthu- 
siasm, which is necessary to those who have to 
operate in behalf of a good cause on colder minds. 
And then, in laying down the duty of Christians in 
respect to missions, he placed the foundation in 
radical principles. He urged especially, the obliga- 
tion of an entire consecration to the cause of Christ, 
as involved in the Christian profession itself. He 
presented the whole world as the field, where not 
only candidates for the ministry, but all pious young 
men, and even those who were not pious, were call- 
ed of God to enter, and labor -at His discretion and 
for His glory. I shall never forget the impressive 
manner in which he held up this view before the 
students of the college. The effect was, I thought, 
a most happy illustration of some of the principles 
which he had himself advanced, in regard to the re- 
flex and collateral influence of the missionary spirit. 
The general piety of the seminary, as well as the 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 153 

interest in Missions seemed to be quickened. Some 
of the young men of the college who were before 
professedly pious, seemed at that time to rise to a 
higher tone of Christian character. Indeed I know 
of one young man at least, who then decided to 
study for the ministry. The one I refer to is now a 
settled minister. A few letters passed between Mr. 
A. and myself after this time, but I never saw him 
again. His few days' visit to us at Union Seminary 
has always been in my memory, one of those hal- 
lowed and delightful seasons, which in after life we 
look back upon, as, in more than a worldly sense, 
the green spots of the past. 

" I have not thought of undertaking to pay a 
tribute to Mr. A., except to give a simple statement 
in regard to the visit spoken of, and the impressions 
of him then made on my mind. So far, at least, as 
the circumstances I have mentioned formed a part 
of his history, I thought this statement might be of 
some value." 

Mr. Abeel thus records his efforts and success in 
his own diary : — 

"May 10, 1835. — Just returned from the South. 
Have been far more favored in exciting a zeal for 
missions, than I had reason to anticipate. Blessed 
be the Lord, for his abundant blessing upon my ex- 
ertions. I have been strengthened to preach often, 
and with some effect. Health improved, though not 
restored. Made hosts of delightful acquaintance. 
Still far from enjoying that high tone of spiritual 
feeling which I earnestly covet. At first my mind 



154 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

was more lively than now. Have been searching 
for the cause of my stupidity ; too little meditation 
and private devotion, and, in consequence, too much 
worldly-mindedness. My judgment is so convinced 
of the emptiness of earthly sources of happiness, 
that I look for scarcely anything of that name in 
this world, and yet I find little worldly trifles occu- 
pying and vexing my mind. ' Walk in the Spirit, 
and ye shall not fulfil the lusts of the flesh/ " 

On his return from the South, Mr. Abeel em- 
ployed his time in the same manner, with a special 
view of visiting all the churches of the denomination 
with which he had always sustained an ecclesiasti- 
cal connection — the Reformed Dutch Church. He 
visited almost every part of the church, preaching 
to all the principal congregations ; and endeavoring 
with unwearied diligence, to produce impressions of 
the importance of that work to which he had de- 
voted himself. He thus effected much for the cause 
he loved, and for his Master's glory. Perhaps as 
much, if not more benefit to the missionary cause, 
was derived from his efforts in producing correct 
views of its extent and obligations, among Christians 
and Churches at home, than when he was engaged 
in the foreign field. 

During his journeyings in the prosecution of this 
work, he complained of the effect of such constant 
changes upon the tone of his personal piety. He 
was often obliged to exert himself until he was al- 
most entirely exhausted, and he was thus unfitted 
for the enjoyment of private devotion. This was 



i 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 155 

to him a sore trial, and he deplored the necessity 
for it. 

"November. — To-day, I have felt the necessity 
of more genuine, self-denying engagedness in the 
blessed cause of the Redeemer. Expecting to leave 
America in the spring, how ought my mind to be ex- 
ercised, and my talents employed. I desire my zeal 
for the Savior and His work among the heathen, 
to become so absorbing, so energizing, so necessary 
to my happiness, that I may say, partly in the lan- 
guage of my great Exemplar, * How am I straitened,' 
until Jesus is known and glorified in all the earth. " 

" December 12, 1835. — Have been spending the 
afternoon of this precious day in my chamber. 
Nothing so quickly brings me to my senses — noth- 
ing so effectually opens the eye of faith, and removes 
all the interposing objects of earth — nothing so pow- 
erfully awakens the deepest and best emotions of 
my soul, and enables me, for the time, to see what 
and where I am, and whither and how I ought to 
proceed — as retirement and meditation, uninter- 
rupted by objects without, or pressing cares within, 
and continued, ad libitum." 

At the close of 1835 he was in New York attend- 
ing lectures at the Medical College, increasing his 
knowledge of the profession which he had already 
applied to practice among the heathen. He was 
also preparing a course of sermons on the subject 
of Missions, which, however, he did not finish. The 
following are his reflections at the close of 1835 and 
the commencement of 1836. 

* Another year has reached its last hour. The 



156 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

night is delightful. The moon sheds her loveliest 
radiance over the earth, and the air is only suffi- 
ciently cold to brace the system, and exhilarate the 
spirits. I have been strolling, meditating, and solilo- 
quizing. The past has been held in review. Noth- 
ing but mercy from the beginning, through every 
moment. The first part of the year was spent at 
the South, where I made many good friends, and 
was enabled to preach with profit. Was favored at 
the anniversaries, and have been aided since, in my 
visitation to the churches. Last two months have 
been devoted to medicine. I find the very highest 
honors in the kingdom of my Redeemer have been 
conferred upon me. Not only a Christian, but a 
Minister, a Missionary. I have been ungrateful and 
forgetful, during the past year. Oh, how little I have 
thought of the infinite obligations under which Jesus 
has laid me. Dear Savior, assist me to be more 
prayerful, spiritual, single in aim, and self-denying 
in effort, than ever. Where shall I be at the expi- 
ration of the next year ? Probably, if spared, in 
China." 

The new year had scarcely commenced, when he 
was seized with sudden and serious illness, which 
compelled him to suspend labor for a time, and suffer 
the will of God ; which he did with all patience. 
Writing to his parents at New Brunswick, he says : 

" There is one advantage in sickness, which, if 
gained, must ever render it a blessing. It diverts 
the mind from the many distracting engagements of 
life, and leaves it more time for the higher duties of 
religion. By unfitting you for other pursuits, it pre- 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 157 

pares you for communion with God, and meditation 
upon eternal things. Oh, there is mercy in every 
trial of the kind. We are dying creatures. Every 
day hastens us to the grave. A few more will fill 
up our earthly allotment, and then comes the un- 
known, or rather, untried future." 

The same sentiments are conveyed in his diary 
at this time. 

''March 13. — My mind for some weeks past has 
been calm, and at times cheerful, yea, triumphant, 
in God my Savior. I have been committing the 
Epistle to the Ephesians to memory. I believe it 
most edifying to have the word dwell in the mem- 
ory abundantly. You can reflect upon it in the 
house, and by the way-side, when you lie down and 
when you arise. Instead of that endless succession 
of fancies and recollections which occupy so much 
precious time, you can form the habit of repeating 
portions of the sacred volume, until the letter be- 
comes familiar to the mind, and its spirit imbues the 
soul — until ' the word of Christ dwells in us richly.' 
My health continues feeble, but God's mercies 
abound. * It is good for me to be afflicted. The 
rapidity of time — the vast work to be accomplished 
in life — and the glorious heaven in prospect, are 
sufficient to banish worldly-mindedness, despond- 
ency and indolence, from every Christian heart. 

" March 28. — My prospects are uncertain. In all 
probability, my disease will yield to returning health. 
I expect now, to remain longer in America than I 
at first anticipated. It is not credible that I can be 
sufficiently restored during the short interval, to 



158 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

venture back into a tropical region. Whether this 
is designed by the Lord to indulge me in my love of 
ease and worldly comfort, or to direct me to a 
sphere of labor where I can do more for his cause 
than by personal effort among the heathen, I cannot 
determine. I sometimes fear that I am receiving 
according to the selfish and unholy desires of my 
own heart. If I remain, it is thought that I ought 
to travel. I hesitate to know whether this is right. 
It appears so much like self-indulgence. The phy- 
sicians advise it, but I am not sure that it is neces- 
sary. What makes me anxious to know whether it 
is my duty or not, is the consideration, that I might 
be of service to the missionary cause by visiting the 
seminaries and colleges, and cities and villages ; and 
spending the summer in advocating the claims of 
the heathen, and impressing the duty of Christians. 
God has graciously blessed my efforts in this behalf, 
and 1 believe he would bless them still more. My 
kind indulgent Father, lead me not to my own cor- 
rupt judgment, but guide me in thy way." 

He was confined by his sickness to the city of 
New York until June, when he travelled tcvthe Sul- 
phur Springs of Virginia, for the purpose of trying 
the effects of the water on his system. While there, 
he pursued a course of religious instruction for those 
who, like himself, were brought together to that 
place, for the restoration of their declining health. 
The prayer-meeting, the Bible-class, and personal 
conversation, were the only means which he was 
able, in his weak state, to employ for the salvation 
of souls, and their growth in grace. Thus, wher- 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 159 

ever he was placed in the dealings of Providence, 
he used all his energies and strength in the service 
of God. When he could not preach the Gospel 
from the pulpit, he delighted to preach from house 
to house ; and when too weak to move, it was his 
chief pleasure to instruct all who would come to 
him. Nor did he ever deny any, as long as he 
was able to speak of the goodness and mercy of 
God. He literally spent himself in the work of his 
Master. 

He returned from Virginia in September, and 
sought repose and quiet under the paternal roof. 
He now expected to sail for China in the course of 
a few weeks, and commenced the preparations for 
his departure. Yet he was full of fear lest he should 
do aught contrary to the voice of duty, and of God's 
providence : — " I have thought seriously of return- 
ing to China this autumn," he writes. " If it be for 
the best, Lord Jesus favor the plan ; if not, let it be 
defeated. 

" I desire to have the way made plain before my 
face. I pray that no reluctance to separation from 
friends, and entering upon trials and toils may be 
felt. I want my Savior's glory to be essential to 
my very existence. I covet above all the honors 
and wealth of the earth, a burning love to the Re- 
deemer ; and a panting desire to have him ' See of 
the travail of his soul and be satisfied.' The ques- 
tions of greatest interest in reference to my future 
mission are, — when, where, and how to go. My 
gracious Father, sympathizing Savior, and blessed 
Comforter, help me to repose confidence in thee, 



160 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

and keep me from trusting to my own understand- 
ing." 

With such a confiding and inquiring spirit as this, 
the disciple was ready to pursue any course, which 
Providence might indicate, resigning all to the hand 
of Him who doeth all things well. 



CHAPTER VIII. 

We have now arrived at a period in the life of 
Mr. Abeel, which was fraught with events that tried 
fully the nature and extent of his confidence in God. 
It cannot be distinguished as a period of labor ; for 
his physical powers were so much exhausted as to 
preclude the possibility of great exertion. And yet 
it is astonishing to see how much he effected in his 
feeble and diseased state. He received at this time 
some of the most severe lessons of affliction that 
he ever experienced — lessons that were effectual, 
through Divine influence, in cultivating and strength- 
ening the passive graces of his soul. 

The Christian character is never fully developed, 
unless there has been a free exercise of the spirit in 
endurance and submission, as well as in action and 
labor. It is easier to do than to suffer with resig- 
nation. The latter tries the depth of the Christian's 
character and spirituality, more fully than the for- 
mer. If that character is but feeble and imperfect, 
its deficiencies soon discover themselves in the hour 
of trial, and the training then received will lead to 
the source of all grace that these deficiencies may 
be supplied. 

When the child of God has undergone this severe 



162 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

process, he can say from his own experience of its 
spiritual advantage, " When thou hast tried me, I 
shall come forth as gold." 

The character of David Abeel received much of 
its peculiar formation and symmetry, from the na- 
ture and extent of his afflictions. The events which 
occurred at this period of his life, he considered to 
be the most severe of all the trials he ever experi- 
enced. 

He was engaged in his preparations for sailing to 
China, in the middle of October of this year (1836), 
and all his plans had been formed with reference to 
that event. The circumstances which prevented 
him from accomplishing his resolution, are recorded 
in his diary. 

u November 10. — Since I last wrote, I have passed 
through one of the most profitable periods of my life. 
I returned to New York, to make preparations for 
my embarkation to China. The ship was expected 
to sail in ten or twelve days from that time. The 
very day of my arrival, while I was making a call 

in Place, I was seized so suddenly with 

alarming symptoms of illness, that I was unable to 
proceed farther ; and, in the course of a week, I was 
brought very near to the gates of death. I was per- 
fectly aware of my situation. At first, when I felt 
that death was probable, there was a slight agita- 
tion. Still, blessed be God there was no oppressive 
fear of dying. My mind soon became placid ; and 
such was my confidence in the perfection of Divine 
wisdom and goodness, that I would not have altered 
the least purpose of the infinite mind, for the uni- 



MEMOIR OP DAVID ABEEL. 163 

verse. The word was precious; the great truths 
of redemption unspeakably supporting. Before I 
became too much enfeebled, I read with delight, 
1 Owen on the glory of Christ,' — the very book (of 
human composition, or rather compilation,) for a 
dying man. While ' lying on my back and looking 
upwards/ God my Father revealed himself to me as 
' Love.' I had read and preached that ' God is love* 
before, but I never saw or felt this glorious truth as 
then. Heaven appeared to me to be made up of 
beings who possessed but one attribute — love. Six 
weeks have elapsed since I was attacked. I am 
much better, but not recovered. The ship sailed 
four weeks ago ; and here am I, waiting, and inquir- 
ing, ■ Lord, what wilt thou have me to do 7 Oh, to 
retain every sanctifying impression of my past indis- 
position. I thought if I did recover, that I would 
endeavor to spend every day with reference to 
dying, and thus avoid being surprised or in the 
least agitated at the summons, whenever, and wher- 
ever, it may come. Father, without the unremitted 
influences of thy Spirit, I cannot live as I ought : — 
Oh, bless me every day and hour." 

As soon as he had sufficiently recovered, he was 
advised to sail to the West Indies. He saw the ne- 
cessity of this course, and complied with cheerful- 
ness. Though this involved a relinquishment of his, 
cherished wish, yet he evinced in the whole matter 
a childlike resignation to the will of God. He 
writes : — 

" December 4. — The physicians have recommend- 
ed a winter in the West Indies. My health remaiift 



164 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

so precarious, that I have been obliged to abandon 
the idea of soon returning to my Eastern home. I 
have nothing to say. Sometimes I fear it is more 
indifference than resignation, and yet reason con- 
vinces me that my energies are all paralyzed by dis- 
ease. 

" My future course is enveloped in darkness. I 
thank my covenant God, that I feel no apprehen- 
sions in regard to it. I hope to be Med in the right 
way,' (however circuitous,) ' to a city of habitation.' 
I wish to lean from hour to hour upon an Omnip 
otent arm, while I look for guidance to infinite 
wisdom." 

His heart yearned as tenderly as ever over the 
perishing heathen ; and though absent from them, 
yet he performed for them all the services that his 
health and position permitted. His anxiety on their 
behalf may be seen in the following reflections : — 

" December 5. — Monthly concert evening. To- 
night the most devoted of God's people meet to 
pray for the unevangelized world. I retire to my 
apartment for the same delightful purpose. Though 
prevented from being with the assembled multitude, 
' in the same place/ I trust we are i all with one 
accord.' This is far more important. I feel the 
necessity of besieging the throne of grace, and giv- 
ing God no rest, until ' He make Jerusalem a praise 
in the whole earth.' Oh, the deplorable condition 
of the nations. My heart sickens at this thought. 
What glory will accrue to the Triune God, when 
the kingdoms of this world shall become the king- 
doms of the Lord, and of His Christ. How will 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 165 

this event thrill the heart of the blessed Redeemer. 
He is even now expecting it, and never shall He 
see the full travail of His soul, and be satisfied, un- 
til it is accomplished. Wake up, then, my drowsy- 
spirit. Lord Jesus, waken thy slumbering church. 
What motive can energize my soul if this cannot ? 
I desire to live and die for no other object, than to 
glorify the Redeemer ; especially in laboring for the 
salvation of those, who thus far, have never heard 
of him. Dear Savior, help thy assembled people — 
help thy solitary servant to pray this night, and 
henceforth, as we have never prayed before/' 

He sailed in December for the West Indies, where 
he remained until the month of May, in the follow- 
ing year. During this time, he was incapacitated 
for public labor, yet he was diligent in the cultiva- 
tion of his own heart. His communion and fellow- 
ship with the Father, and His Son Jesus Christ, ap- 
pear to have been more exalted and uninterrupted, 
than ever before. 

A new and severe trial now awaited him. While 
at St. Thomas, he was examined by an eminent 
physician ; and it was ascertained for the first time, 
that the most of his difficulties and sufferings could 
be traced to an organic disease of the heart — an 
enlargement which interfered with the action of the 
lungs, and might prove fatal at any moment. This 
discovery was new, and entirely unexpected, by him, 
and it produced a severe shock upon his mind. He 
could not at first realize the fact that his situation 
was so dangerous. He writes, — 



166 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

" April 2. — To-day has been a season of uncom- 
mon spiritual conflict. Yesterday it was ascertained 
by examination, that my heart and the contiguous 
parts are in a very critical condition. This brings 
death and the eternal world very near; and the 
want of strong faith, and lively hope, and an earn- 
est desire to depart and be with Christ, have filled 
me with sadness. Oh, how strange, that I am not 
yet prepared to hail every evidence of approaching 
dissolution with rapture." 

In a short time he was reconciled to his situation, 
as he became more familiar with the thought ; and 
his religious feelings resumed their usual composure. 

Returning to New York, Mr. Abeel reached the 
paternal roof at New Brunswick, N. J., on the 8th 
of June. He arrived at the time when the great 
revival of religion was in progress in that place : a 
revival, which was as remarkable for exhibitions of 
the power of divine grace, as any that ever occur- 
red in the United States. It may be imagined that 
to him it was a season of the greatest spiritual en- 
joyment. He remarks in his diary — 

" As I approached New Brunswick, I heard the 
church bell tolling ; and, upon inquiry, ascertained 
that there was a revival of religion in the place, and 
public worship in all the churches, every evening. 
One week has passed since I arrived ; and it has been 
perhaps the most exciting week I have spent in this 
place, since my own conversion. God is here with 
mighty power ; and there is reason to hope that 
some two or three hundred have already been res- 



MEMOIR OP DAVID ABEEL. 167 

cued from the second death. Blessed be His name, 
I am enabled to lend a little aid in the work." 

In the fall of this year, (1837,) he was again at- 
tacked by sickness, which prostrated his already 
feeble energies ; and when he had sufficiently recov- 
ered, he was obliged once more to journey to the 
South. Yet, in all his illness, he was never so much 
discouraged as to abandon the hope of future use- 
fulness in his Master's service in foreign lands. His 
trials led him to compare his own position with that 
of the Apostle Paul, when his plans were frustrated 
by the providence of God — " Thrice he suffered ship- 
wreck ; which, together with the time when he was 
cast away on the coast of Malta, make four events 
of that kind, while fulfilling his high commission : — 
how many would have concluded that God disap- 
proved his course, and hence these frequent re- 
bukes and obstacles/' With such thoughts did he 
comfort his soul, and strengthen his faith, in this 
season of darkness and doubt. 

At the time when Mr. AbeePs prospects of visit- 
ing China seemed to be almost destroyed by provi- 
dential interferences, he met that eminent servant 
of God, the late Dr. Griffin. They were conversing 
in reference to the spiritual condition of Eastern 
Asia ; and the missionary expressed a fear which he 
could not always resist, and which was entertained 
by many of his friends — that he would never again 
be permitted to reach his longed-for field of labor. 
Dr. Griffin answered him as with the ken of a pro- 
phet — " My son, your work is not yet done in China 
— the Lord has yet much for you to accomplish in 



168 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

that place for his glory." This remark was treas- 
ured up ; and in the end it almost appeared as if 
that aged saint had seen the future, for his declara- 
tion was fully verified in the workings of God's 
providence. 

At the close of 1836, Mr. Abeel was at Charleston, 
S. C. He thus mentions the events which had oc- 
curred during the year. 

" Another hour, and the year will close — what 
have I accomplished since its commencement ? 
Have been unwell much of the time ; suffering, I 
trust, the will of God. Until June absent from 
the country — two months or more at home — after- 
wards travelling, and at times able to preach ; — then 
sick again, and now improving, with the prospect 
of usefulness. I scarcely know what to conclude on 
the retrospect — I thank God I am ' still pursuing,' 
* not weary in well doing,' — * holding on my way.' I 
trust too, there has been some progress in spiritual 
attainments." 

During this winter, his strength so far increased, 
that he was enabled to labor with considerable suc- 
cess at the South. When he returned from the 
Southern states, (in the first part of April,) he ex- 
pected soon to sail for China : but he was again 
disappointed, on account of the *feeble state of his 
health — yet he bore this renewed disappointment 
with patience and humble submission to the will of 
God. 

This summer was spent chiefly at the different 
theological seminaries, seeking to produce in the 
minds of those who were preparing for the ministry, 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 169 

correct views of their obligations to the heathen. 
Thus he aimed to increase the number of devoted 
missionaries, who might fill the station which he was 
unable to occupy. He visited the theological semi- 
naries at Andover, Princeton, New Brunswick, and 
other places. Nor were his labors in vain ; for the 
conscientious could not but be impressed with his 
earnestness, and affected by the power of his argu- 
ments, and his touching descriptions of the wants 
of the world that lieth in wickedness. Many were 
raised up through his instrumentality as missionaries 
of the cross, who are at present in foreign lands, 
preaching the Gospel to the degraded heathen. 

But the time had now arrived, when the dearest 
wish of his heart was to be realized. After earnest 
solicitations, his physicians consented that he should 
return to China, although they warned him that it 
was an experiment which his strength might or might 
not endure. He was willing to try the experiment, 
and leave the result in the hands of God. Accord- 
ingly on the 17th day of October, he sailed with a 
band of fellow-missionaries for Canton, embracing 
besides himself, Messrs. Brown and Keasberry and 
their wives. The farewell services were held in the 
Middle Dutch Church, New York. 

The following extracts are made from the journal 
of this voyage, w r hich was rendered exceedingly 
pleasant by the numerous employments and amuse- 
ments that were afforded them ; and above all, by 
Christian sympathy and communion. 

" October 17, 1838. — The scene of parting is 
over. My feelings I will not attempt to describe. 

8 



170 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

The tears, and prayers, and farewell benedictions, I 
can never forget. Oh, shall we all meet again where 
this intense agony can never be repeated ? 

" Sabbath, November 4. — A day of peculiar pleas- 
antness has been succeeded by an evening to be 
enjoyed only at sea. The moon, which is about 
two days in the wane, arose behind a bank of dark, 
broken clouds, piercing their crevices — varying their 
shades^ — illuminating their edges — and shooting her 
brightest beams up the arch of the heavens — while, 
for some time, her disk was entirely concealed. 
What rays of Sabbath softness she threw over the 
surface of the dark-blue waters ; and what myriads 
of little waves, as if instinct with life, arose to catch 
her light and sport in its brightness. What a scene 
for reflection and prayer ! Besides our Sabbath 
morning services, and the usual evening worship, 
we succeeded to-day in organizing a Bible-class ; 
which we divided into three parts, that we might 
make the instructions more familiar and personal. 
We were all much gratified with the commence- 
ment of our engagements. May the Lord render 
the study of His own word effectual to the conver- 
sion of all. What a day of holy sympathy this has 
been. The feelings which swell our hearts, and the 
prayers which express them, for those beloved ob- 
jects whom we have left, will not be known till we 
meet in a better world : — 

* Though sundered far, by faith we meet 
Around one common mercy seat.' 

" Monday, December 3. — Our Sabbaths return in 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 171 

great haste, and afford us seasons of much enjoy- 
ment. They are days of holy sympathy with all 
our beloved Christian friends, and with the Church 
universal. Yesterday Mr. Brown preached. His 
sermons are calculated to be very useful. We di- 
vide all the religious services of the Sabbath, and the 
w r eek. He and his wife are amiable, intelligent, and 
pious. They will no doubt make very valuable mis- 
sionaries. If I had been privileged with a selection 
among all the detained missionaries, I do not think 
I could have chosen more agreeable companions. 
Probably no missionary band has ever left their na- 
tive country, who were favored with more numerous 
sources of occupation and enjoyment, than have 
fallen to our lot. One of the principal ones is sacred 
music. Mr. Brown is our leader. He sings admi- 
rably, and plays on several instruments. The ser- 
aphin, base viol, flute, and violin are all put in re- 
quisition, though not all at one time. Mrs. Brown, 
Keasberry, and last and least, myself, all assist. We 
have a variety of books with us, and have selected 
from them a number of exquisite pieces of music. I 
wish our friends at home could listen to us, when in 
full tune. But if faithful unto death, we shall all 
soon meet again ; and join in that sweetest of all 
songs, whose strains shall be prolonged through the 
unwasting ages of our blissful being. ' Unto Him 
that loved us and washed us from our sins in His own 
blood/ 

"Monday evening, December 24. — This night 
commemorates the time of the Redeemer's advent 
to this world. 'God so loved the world that he gave 



172 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

His only begotten Son' — a truth which finite intelli- 
gences can never appreciate, because they can never 
comprehend it. There is something in the love of 
God the Father, which the experience of many 
Christians never embraces. They clothe Him with 
terror, and arm Him with vengeance; and place 
Him in the attitude of opposition to the merciful 
designs of the Savior, as if it demanded all the ad- 
vocacy of the Mediator, to preserve the saints in 
the favor of the Father. Many scarcely dare ad- 
dress the first Person of the adorable Trinity, as if 
He were so difficult to propitiate, that it required 
the constant intercession of His Son for years after 
their conversion, to render his people acceptable to 
Him. Oh, how dishonorable, how unjust, thus to 
regard the very Being who originated the scheme 
of redemption : who, ' according as He chose us be- 
fore the foundation of the world/ sent His Son in 
the fulness of time, to redeem us, that He might 
adopt us as ' children by Jesus Christ to Himself, 
according to the good pleasure of His will' — from 
whom cometh down every good and perfect gift. It 
is most animating to regard all the persons of the 
Trinity as our covenant God, perfectly harmonious 
and co-operative in the salvation of dying souls. 
To my own mind, the character and love of God 
the Father, has long been a subject of unspeakable 
satisfaction and delight. Its glory dims all created 
lustre, and fills the soul with a mixture of wonder 
and transport which arises to 'joy unspeakable.' 
The greatest exhibition and fruit of God's infinite 
love, we are called on to remember this evening. 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 173 

* Herein is love/ to deliver up freely, such a Son, — 
so beloved — so exalted — to such a life and death ! 

1 Oh, love beyond conception great, 

That formed the vast stupendous plan 
Where all divine perfections meet, 
To reconcile rebellious man.' 

"January 7, 1839. — First Monday in January. 
— Though almost twelve hours in advance of our 
friends, we have observed this day by prayer and 
fasting ; that we might unite with them as nearly as 
possible, in pleading the promises of God on behalf 
of this rebellious world. Oh, that the people of God 
may enjoy a double portion of the spirit of grace 
and supplication, while they cast themselves before 
His throne, and cry mightily for the salvation of 
their ruined race. Such seasons are to the mis- 
sionary the brightest periods of time — the rays which 
infallibly proclaim the approach of a glorious day — 
nay, the earnests of all that he desires, and labors 
to realize upon earth. God has set the seal of His 
approbation upon this day. In one or two instances, 
He has connected with it, the application and fulfil- 
ment of that most remarkable promise, ' And it shall 
come to pass that before they call I will answer : 
and while they are yet speaking, I will hear.' The 
confidence of * them that are afar off upon the sea/ 
has been with our little band to-day ; refreshing our 
own souls, and making intercession for (within) us, 
on behalf of the whole world. We are the weeping 
sowers in this great Eastern field. A work we see 
before us, which demands all our faith, and shall 



174 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

continue to tax all our patience. The dragon 
sways his iron sceptre over these myriads of dark 
minds, and not a subject will he lose without the 
most vigorous resistance. But he cannot retard the 
wheels of time, nor defer the purposes of Jehovah. 
Though we may be at times oppressed to weeping, 
joy shall shine through our tears. ' Our labor is not 
in vain.' The harvest shall come, and they that sow 
and they that reap shall rejoice together. Heaven 
and earth shall unite in this joy. ' Sing ye heavens, 
for the Lord hath done it : shout ye lower parts of 
the earth, break forth into singing ye mountains, Oh 
forest and every tree therein, for the Lord hath re- 
deemed Jacob and glorified Himself in Israel.' ' Re- 
joice over her (antichrist) thou heaven, and ye holy 
apostles and prophets, for God hath avenged you 
on her.' 

" The Church's afflicted state has been continued 
with scarcely any intermission to the present time. 
Soon the Lord shall be her everlasting light, and the 
days of her mourning shall be ended." 



COPY OF THE HYMN SUNG AT THE FAREWELL MEETING OF THE 
MISSIONARY ABEEL, COMPOSED BY G. W. BETHUNE, D.D. 

Farewell brother ! tongues that falter, 
Hearts whose love no tongue can tell, 

Christians weeping round God's altar — 
Bless thee, as we bid farewell. 

Loving brother, tears are starting 

From thine own responsive eye : 
Bless us in our holy parting, 

While we yet may see thee nigh. 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 175 

Once thou didst go from us weeping, 

Precious seed afar to bear ; 
Soon thy sheaves of mercy reaping, 

We thy distant joy would share. 

Then we met thee home returning : 

A stricken man, and worn, and weak ; 
Fever in thy bosom burning, 

Faint thy brow, and wan thy cheek. 

Yet thine eye with ardor glistened, 

As thou badst us all draw near ; 
And to thy low words we listened, 

Melting tales of woe to hear. 

Dearest brother, thou hast taught us 

By thy glowing lips and page, 
Zeal, like His whose life-blood bought us, 

Heathen sorrow to assuage. 

Now again, thy spirit yearneth 

O'er the pagan's fearful doom ; 
And from home and kindred turneth, 

To the lands of sin and gloom. 

Go then, brother ; God is calling, 

And thou know'st His welcome voice : 
Go, though fast our tears are falling, 

Yet in sorrow we rejoice. 

Go, though we no more behold thee, 

Till we meet in heaven above ; 
God's own promise shall enfold thee 

Safely in eternal love. 

Go, for our weak hearts are growing 

Closer to thee as we cling ; 
Go, for bosoms overflowing, 

Choke our accents as we sing. 



176 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 



COPY OF VERSES SENT TO THE PARENTS OF MR. ABEEL SHORTLY 
AFTER HIS DEPARTURE TO CHINA. 

Art thou going again to the land where thy Lord, 

Thy Redeemer, thy friend is unknown, unadored 1 

Where the heathen bow down to the gods they have made, 

And revile Him on whom their transgressions were laid 1 

Thou hast taught, thou hast prayed in their midst, thou hast tried 

To remove their delusion, enlighten, and guide 

Their dark minds to Jesus — the strength and the shield 

Of thy poor feeble frame in that far foreign field. 

Say, art thou not awed by the fearful array 

Of diseases and dangers that hedged up thy way — 

That darkened thy prospects, induced thee to fear 

Thy work was accomplished — thy end drawing near ? 

Or say, doth thy Healer encourage thy heart — 

Doth He promise assistance with grace to impart — 

Doth He say that to Him all these kingdoms belong, 

And the heathen's salvation shall yet be thy song % 

That, redeemed from idolatry, many shall sit 

The willing, the waiting, with thee at His feet, 

And count it all glory, to labor and pray 

That the kingdom of Christ may have absolute sway ? 

Then go in His strength, in the mighty array 

Of His word, and His Spirit : and Christians will pray 

That the winds and the waves, while thy home is the deep, 

May the vessel, thyself, and thy friends safely keep. 

They are servants at will to thy God and thy guide, 

To the God who thus far all thy need has supplied : 

Who hath helped thee to sacrifice much, and whose grace 

Is as ample as when he first said " Seek my face" — 

With thy wants and thy weaknesses Jesus will bear, 

What thou leavest and lovest, He'll take in his care, 

E'en thy father and mother, in life's wintry day, 

Shall find in His covenant, their strength and their stay. 

Then go in His name, in His panoply clad, 

And win for thy Master fresh jewels, to add 

To His crown of rejoicing — Bright jewels to shine 

In the kingdom of glory — His own home and thine. 



CHAPTER IX. 

After a pleasant voyage, made under every 
favorable circumstance, the Missionary Company 
reached Canton on the 20th day of February, 1839. 
Mr. Abeel had been absent from Canton for eight 
years. Many great changes had occurred during 
that time. His friend and former co-worker, Dr. 
Morrison, the father of China missions, had been 
taken to his last resting place. " I went on shore at 
Macao/' he writes, " on Friday, and remained until 
the next afternoon. The change to me was strik- 
ing. Dr. Morrison lies slumbering in his last dor- 
mitory, * where the wicked cease from troubling and 
the weary are at rest.' I shall never again be 
welcomed to his hospitable home upon earth ; but, 
through grace, I trust he will be one to welcome me 
to the mansions of our common Father, whence ' we 
shall go no more out/ But though he has been 
taken to a better world, others have taken his place 
in this. Five missionaries of different denomina- 
tions are now residing at Macao. Our reception at 
Canton w r as most gratifying." 

Among the many delightful evidences of the in- 
creasing influence and usefulness of the missionary 
work in this field, none affected him more favorably 

8* 



178 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

than the operations of the hospital, under the care 
of Dr. Parker. " Since my arrival, I have been in 
the daily habit of visiting the hospital under Dr. 
Parker, and spending an hour in that interesting in- 
stitution. I am surprised at the crowds of patients 
who visit it. Persons of all classes of society, even 
the highest officers in this part of the country, have 
sought and obtained medical and surgical aid from 
the missionary. Its influence must be very salutary, 
as it is certainly very extensive. It affords an op- 
portunity, too, for private conversation on the truths 
of Christianity. If those who have questioned the 
propriety of medical practice among the heathen 
were to pass a day in this hospital, they would be 
impressed with the mercy of God in opening so 
wide a door of usefulness to this guarded empire." 

Mr. Abeel immediately recommenced the study 
of the language, and was enabled to enter upon all 
the duties of missionary life with energy, as the voy- 
age had produced the usual effect of strengthening 
his system, and increasing his bodily vigor. Al- 
though the band of missionaries had increased, and 
many important and beneficial changes had taken 
place since his former residence in China, yet he 
found the character of her inhabitants unaltered : 
and his eye was pained, in beholding the same vain 
and soul-destroying superstitions. 

Owing to this increase of missionaries, there was 
a greater amount of religious privileges than before. 
In his journal, under date of March 4th, Mr. Abeel 
notices the various means of grace enjoyed even in 
this land of heathenism. "Yesterday was the first 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 179 

Sabbath we have spent on shore since the middle of 
October last. The scene has changed since I was 
here before. Then a chaplain belonging to the East 
India Company officiated in their chapel, and we 
held a service in the dining-room of Talbot, Oliphant 
& Go's residence. Now the Company's privileges 
being annulled, its servants are dispersed, and the 
missionaries occupy their chapel on the Sabbath. 
The English service, or rather, parts of the Ameri- 
can Episcopal service are read, and a sermon either 
preached or read, according to the time which the 
missionaries can spare from their other duties. A 
very respectable auditory were present, and Mr. 
Dickinson, from Singapore, preached the sermon. 
He has frequently supplied the pulpit during his 
visit, and his services have been very acceptable to 
the foreign residents. In the afternoon at five, we 
had a Bible class ; at which the professors of religion, 
and a few others who are disposed to serious pur- 
suits, usually are present. In the evening, as is the 
custom here on the first Sabbath of every month, 
the sacrament was administered in the mission 
house. Eight partook of the emblems ; being dou- 
ble the number that celebrated this feast, when I 
resided here before. These, with a Thursday eve- 
ning meeting for prayer, constitute the social privi- 
leges of the place." 

This was far different from his situation, when 
among the benighted inhabitants of Siam he stood 
alone, shut out from the enjoyment of all the public 
ordinances of religion. 

He had not labored long at Canton and Macao, 



180 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

before the whole operations of the missionaries were 
impeded by the difficulties which arose between 
Great Britain and China, in relation to the opium 
trade. As to the justice or injustice of these diffi- 
culties, and of the course of policy arising from 
them, Mr. Abeel says but little, in his journal or 
letters. While he considered the opium trade as 
fraught with ruinous consequences to the bodies 
and souls of the inhabitants of China, on the other 
hand he deemed the war necessary to overcome the 
prejudices, and destroy the exclusive policy of these 
self-styled subjects of the " Son of Heaven." He 
looked beyond political questions ; and saw in these 
difficulties, the providence of God working great 
results for good out of seeming evil, and causing the 
wrath af man to praise him. Nor were his antici- 
pations in regard to these things disappointed. This 
is a most interesting point in the history of China, 
as it develops at the same time the singular charac- 
ter and policy of her inhabitants, and the move- 
ments of the Divine hand, in opening a way that 
this benighted kingdom might receive the Gospel of 
life. Hence the greater part of this chapter will be 
filled with extracts from the journal of Mr. Abeel, 
describing these difficulties. His descriptions pos- 
sess all the interest which are found in the journals 
of those who are eye-witnesses, and careful observ- 
ers of the great events of Providence : who observe 
not from motives of worldly policy, but to learn the 
will of God. We commence our extracts with the 
notice of the events which produced the first oppor- 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 181 

tunity for the display of the belligerent feelings 
which had so long existed between these nations. 

"March 22. — A great excitement, mingled in 
some minds with no small' degree of apprehension 
for personal safety, prevails throughout the foreign 
community. A commissioner invested with pleni- 
potentiary powers from the Court of Pekin, arrived 
in Canton several days ago, with the avowed and 
apparently sincere intention of putting a perpetual 
end to the opium traffic. It has grown to such a 
frightful magnitude, and has so long eluded the laws 
of the country, and set at defiance the edicts of the 
Emperor, that now the power of the empire appears 
to be summoned to crush it. All the opium ships 
lying in the outside waters, are demanded to sur- 
render their entire cargoes, some fifteen or twenty 
thousand chests. This demand is made by the com- 
missioner to the hong merchants; and the public 
execution of two of them is threatened, in case of 
any failure. For a few days these unfortunate, in- 
nocent men have been a state of the greatest alarm 
and agitation. They have never participated in the 
trade, and never received the least consideration for 
conniving at it. Indeed, it is questionable whether 
their silence or non-interference can be interpreted 
into a criminal connivance. Their business is lim- 
ited to the trade within the custom-house districts. 
But the opium traffic has been carried on, at least 
by foreign ships, with which alone they are connect- 
ed, beyond these limits. Besides, such is the custom 
of the country, that it is said by the residents here, 
the hong merchants are not at liberty to volunteer 



182 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

information on any subjects. When called up before 
the authorities, they are expected to reply to ques- 
tions, but permitted to say nothing farther. They 
have been to see the merchants on several occasions, 
and are represented as objects of real commisera- 
tion. The opium, or much of it, belongs to persons 
in other countries, and the merchants here say they 
have no right to give it up. Yesterday the poor 
hong merchants were in such distress, in dread of 
the execution which was threatened this morning, 
that the foreign merchants subscribed a thousand 
and thirty-six chests of opium to appease the com- 
missioner, and preserve their lives. What will be 
the effect, we are all waiting to ascertain with no 
small degree of interest. The hong merchants are 
in the city, holding an interview with the viceroy ; 
but it is scarcely possible, that one thousand chests 
of opium, will be received as a substitute for fifteen 
or twenty thousand, which the commissioner knows 
is in the ships on the coast. If he persists in his 
original demand, and especially if he proceeds to the 
infliction of the threatened punishment, the mer- 
chants will be compelled to surrender all. Indeed 
even then, if one or two of these innocent men 
should be first sacrificed, it is thought by some that 
the giving up of the drug will be of no avail to for- 
eigners. The mob, seeing men of reputation and 
some standing in society delivered up as victims for 
the crimes of foreigners, will break through all 
restraints, as they came near doing a few months ago, 
and make the lives of us all answer for the offence 
of the guilty. The plea of foreigners who have 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 183 

dealt in the drug, is, that the Chinese themselves 
have participated largely in the contraband traffic — 
that the officers, and some of the high officers of 
the government, have derived large sums from its 
profits — that they had reason to expect from the 
petition of some of the greatest mandarins in the 
empire, as well as the opinion of the hong merchants, 
that it would have been legalized before the present 
day — that it is impossible to carry on any commerce 
with the Chinese, without infringing some of their 
unreasonable laws, &c. &c. To-day we are all pre- 
vented from leaving Canton. Several government 
boats have taken their stations near the landing- 
place, and while they allow foreigners to enter the 
city, none are permitted to leave it. 

" Our teachers on all such occasions are obliged to 
keep aloof. Their engagements with us contravene 
the laws of the country. Indeed we can scarcely 
stir without stumbling over some absurd prohibition 
or other. The commissioner has been informed 
that the house of Oliphant & Co., in which I am 
living, has maintained as decided an opposition to 
the traffic, as their situation would allow. In his 
public edicts he discriminated between the good and 
bad foreigners, and professes to know the names of 
all. Indeed there is no doubt of his having obtained 
the most minute information, respecting the mer- 
chants and their business. He knows there are men 
here who understand the Chinese language. These 
are all engaged in commercial affairs. Of Bridge- 
man, Dr. Parker, and myself, he has probably not 
been informed. The hospital will unquestionably 



184 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

come under his notice. But I must leave the future 
to disclose its own events. ' The Lord reigns/ and 
' the gates of hell shall not prevail ' against His king- 
dom." 

This is the commencement of those difficulties, 
which at last produced, or were a part of the causes 
producing the war between England and China. 
The whole course of it is developed in this journal, 
and for this reason large extracts are published. 

"March 23. — The excitement continues. A crowd 
of inquisitive Chinese have spent the day in front 
of the factories. The hong merchants, and several 
of the high officers of the government, have been 
passing many hours in one of the buildings in the 
rear of us, endeavoring to persuade one of the prin- 
cipal opium dealers to comply with the wishes or 
commands of the commissioner, to meet him in the 
city. The gentleman has refused to go without a 
guarantee, under the seal of the commissioner, that 
he shall be permitted to retire after the interview. 
The hong merchants and officers are evidently 
afraid to carry this reply to the commissioner, and 
have consequently been employing all arguments 
and appeals to change the purpose of the person in 
demand. A company of four foreigners, one of 
whom is connected with the same house with the 
individual whose presence is required, have gone 
into the city to bear the reply which the native of- 
ficers were afraid to return to their superior, and to 
answer such questions as the great man may feel 
disposed to propose. We all wait with anxiety for 
the result of the interview. It is now past nine 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 185 

o'clock, lanterns are hung around the entrances of 
all the foreign buildings, and the crowd which had 
partly dispersed is again deepening. All commu- 
nication is cut off. Foreigners are not allowed 
even to approach the city. The place is evidently 
under martial law. 

" March 25. — The party who went into the city 
were Very well treated, and returned about ten in 
the evening. They did not see the commissioner, 
and it is to be feared that their going gained no im- 
portant point. The demand for Mr. Dent still con- 
tinues. Yesterday, all the operations on the part 
of the Chinese were suspended, in deference to our 
opinions of the Sabbath. At least such was the 
general impression, and the day passed quietly away 
until about the middle of the afternoon, when the 
scene suddenly changed ; and such a change, per- 
haps, none have ever witnesed before in Canton. 
Captain Elliott, the superintendent of the British 
commission, hearing at Macao of the excitement 
here, and the demand for one of her Majesty's sub- 
jects, took his cutter and proceeded as far as one 
of the forts near this city : when, leaving the cutter 
at anchor, he embarked in a ship's boat, and forced 
his way, against the opposition and threats of the 
mandarin galleys, to the factories. The news spread 
with great rapidity, and the boats and streets poured 
forth their contents like swarms of bees from their 
hives. The British flag was immediately hoisted. 
Captain E. called upon all foreigners to stand by 
him, and then went in full uniform to the residence 
of Mr. Dent, and took him out, surrounded by Eng- 



186 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

lish and Americans, to the large British factory. 
Very soon afterwards, though in compliance with 
an order issued before this event was known in the 
city, all the servants of the foreigners were com- 
manded to leave their places. The approach to the 
factories has been completely blocked up by officers 
and soldiers at the corners of the streets opening 
into the square ; and by solid rows of boats, pre- 
venting all communication by the river. This 
morning we were obliged to prepare our own break- 
fast ; and until this order is revoked, we shall have 
the pleasure of waiting upon each other and our- 
selves. The object of the Chinese, is to starve or 
annoy the foreign community into subservience to 
the commands of the Emperor's minister. We 
shall probably be able to endure the siege for many 
weeks, having a pretty good supply of provisions, 
and Parsee neighbors, who have their own servants, 
and who evidently feel disposed to assist us. 

" Matters are approaching a crisis. What will 
be the denouement, none can tell ; Capt. Elliott is 
resolved not to give up Mr. Dent, or any of the 
opium, having received the latter under British pro- 
tection. Last night he said he was going instantly 
to demand passports for all English subjects, and all 
others who would place themselves under their flag. 
He would allow the Chinese government ten days, 
after which he would interpret a refusal to grant 
his request, into hostile intentions, and would act 
accordingly. 

" The square is perfectly clear, with the exception 
of the officers and soldiers, who keep it so. I never 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 187 

saw a mob assemble and disperse so hastily, as yes- 
terday evening. Though their curiosity was greatly 
excited, before we knew the cause, we saw them 
scampering in every direction, as if they felt the 
rocking of an earthquake, and feared immediate in- 
humation. A few officers of government occasioned 
this precipitate retreat : it shows their dread of the 
civil authorities. 

" Since I began to write the square has again 
been the scene of great commotion. Numbers of 
soldiers stationed in the boats, rushed out with their 
spears, and, as usual, made a great noise. Two 
Englishmen, under a Dutch chop or passport, came 
from Macao, and after many detentions succeeded 
in reaching Canton. The streets are said to be 
again open, if indeed they were shut at all ; for re- 
ports are numerous and contradictory. Our Chi- 
nese studies are in a great measure suspended. 
The teachers are not allowed to approach us, and 
everything is in a state of excitement and expecta- 
tion. The 121st Psalm presented itself in the course 
of private reading this morning. This is quite 
enough for personal safety, and the security and 
increase of the church are equally promised. 

"April I. — The changes of the weather at this 
season are as sudden as in America. The variation 
is not so great, but its effects are quite as trying. 
As soon as the wind comes in from the north you 
perceive the difference ; and until its return to the 
south or west, invalids especially with weak or dis- 
eased lungs, must expect to suffer. As in Amer- 
ica, three or four days generally exhausts the 



188 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

strength of the wind, and the chilliness of the at- 
mosphere. These changes are very common in 
the spring ; but when the monsoon changes, about 
the close of this month, the weather becomes per- 
manently hot. 

"May 16. — Several changes since the last date. 
The commissioner promised, upon the delivery of 
the opium, forgiveness for all past offences and the 
full enjoyment of former privileges. The first was 
specified, the last implied, if not declared. Instead 
of fulfilling this part of his agreement, he has de- 
tained sixteen men, whom he supposes to be the 
leading opium dealers, but some of whom have never 
partaken in the trade, as hostages, until the drug 
is surrendered. Several of these gentlemen have 
been ordered to leave Canton never to return. The 
rest are expecting the same ejectment. A new law 
has been promulgated, threatening confiscation and 
death to every foreigner who shall engage in smug- 
gling the drug. There are two serious objections 
to this law. The Chinese system of suretyship, or 
mutual responsibility, involves the innocent with the 
guilty — their mode of trial is exceedingly exception- 
able, as past experience has proved — and they are 
constantly committing egregious mistakes in their 
transactions with foreigners. They have misjudged 
with regard to several of the sixteen whom they are 
holding in Canton. A few months ago, it was with 
the greatest difficulty that an innocent gentlemen 
could extricate himself from the most serious em- 
barrassments, occasioned by a remote resemblance 
in the name. Their language is so different from 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 189 

ours, that here they are liable to constant errors. In 
this case the officers of government were so bent 
upon expelling the one whom they mistook for the 
offender, that the hong merchants came and besought 
him to acknowledge the crime, and submit to the 
penalty. So much for Chinese justice. 

a A very perplexing mistake has been committed 
in the returns of the opium. The merchants who 
held the drug, gave in to the English Superintendent 
the amount of 20,000 chests, and upwards ; which 
now proves to be some two or three thousand chests 
more than the smuggling ships contained. From 
the manifest absence of reason and justice in the 
Chinese authorities, there is no possibility of con- 
vincing them of the error. The opium which ar- 
rived since, has been employed to supply the defi- 
ciency, and yet some hundreds are lacking. These 
will probably arrive before long." 

This number of chests was finally obtained and 
delivered to the commissioner, who destroyed them. 

"Augusta. — About a month ago, a Chinaman 
was killed at Hong-Kong, in an affray with some 
English sailors. The men have been tried, and some 
of them sentenced to imprisonment by a court com- 
posed of British subjects. It was impossible to as- 
certain who gave the fatal blow, and it was very 
certain that no malice prepense could have existed. 
The commissioner, ignorant of what the English 
have done, or determined to have his own way, has 
issued an edict, demanding the murderer. The 
Chinese servants in the English houses, are ordered 
to withdraw within three days, and threatened with 



190 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

execution, if they disobey. The consequence is, 
there is great excitement among the English. Many 
are apprehensive that a man of their number will be 
seized as a substitute for the guilty sailor. Some 
of them are embarking on board the ships. The 
edict of the day before yesterday, was an order, not 
only for the immediate withdrawal of the servants, 
but also for the stopping of supplies. The reasons 
assigned were not simply the murder, but some of 
the old grievances ; principally the refusal of the 
British merchants, either to send their ships to 
Whampoa for trade, or to send them out of the Chi- 
nese waters. A discrimination is made between the 
English, and the other foreign Barbarians, which is 
a new feature in Chinese policy. This, however, 
must in a great measure defeat their object ; as they 
cannot well distinguish between them, and if they 
could, they could not prevent the one from assisting 
the other.'' 

The events recorded under the last date and in 
the ensuing extracts, occurred at Macao, whither 
Mr. Abeel had removed from Canton. 

"August 28. — We have been passing through 
scenes of great excitement. After the removal of 
the Chinese servants from the English families, the 
Portuguese were engaged as substitutes ; and for a 
day or two the inconvenience was not very great. 
The commissioner, finding that they could purchase 
as freely as the Chinese, and that his object had been 
defeated, limited the supplies that were brought to 
market ; and challenged or watched the purchasers. 
But soon finding that he could not distinguish the 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 191 

servants of the English, from those of the Portu- 
guese, or even fror^the poorer class of Portuguese, 
he directed an edict to the Portuguese themselves 
commanding them to withdraw from the service of 
the English ; and menacing them with the stoppage 
of provisions, if they refused. Captain Elliott waited 
to see that this was likely to be executed ; and then, 
with the members of the commission, retired to 
Hong-Kong. It was hoped that this would pacify 
the commissioner ; but scarcely had a day inter- 
vened, before the Portuguese governor received of- 
ficial notice, that if the English did not deliver up 
the murderer, or instantly leave the place, a band 
of some thousands of soldiers would be let loose 
upon them. This left no alternative to the subjects 
of her Britannic majesty. They all prepared to take 
a hasty departure. The following day was fixed for 
their embarkation. But 'the decree was so hasty/ 
that, that very night, the governor received word 
that the English houses would be attacked by the 
Chinese soldiers before morning. 

" The governor is a soldier by profession ; and his 
reply was, that the English were preparing to leave 
the place, and if an attack was made he would re- 
pel it with his utmost force. It was the Sabbath 
night. Of course the calmness of the day had been 
greatly interrupted. The moon shone brilliantly, 
and disclosed almost every object in the surround- 
ing regions. The soldiers were called out, the Por- 
tuguese inhabitants and the foreign merchants armed 
themselves. The governor spent the night in the 
Monte fort, which arises over our house ; and when 



192 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

the morning returned, we found that the guns had 
been ready to perform their aw#d work. The Chi- 
nese, if they seriously meditated an attack, doubtless 
saw that it would be hazarding too much. The 
succeeding day witnessed the departure of nearly 
all who bore the British name. My host, who, by 
the way, since the troubles, has become my guest, 
was obliged to depart. The dwelling had been 
transferred to me, and now passed as an American 
house. Whether this transfer has been acknowl- 
edged by the Chinese authorities, is a question of 
which there has been a diversity of opinions. Up 
to the time of the threatened attack, it remained 
very doubtful ; although, as we have not been dis- 
turbed, we have reason to believe it is recognized as 
American. Two other English ladies, on account 
of ill health, have been obliged to remain on shore. 
They are both living in American houses." 

" November 4. — Yesterday there was a naval en- 
gagement between the two English vessels that are 
here, and a fleet of Chinese war junks. The com- 
missioner issued threats of expulsion to the English 
who had recently returned to Macao, and extinction 
to the English fleet at Hong-Kong, by means of 
fire-boats. The ships of war went to the Bogue to 
demand of the commissioner the withdrawal of 
these threats, and to inform him of their intention 
in case of a refusal. While lying at anchor not far 
from the Bogue, waiting a reply from the commis- 
sioner, the Chinese Admiral sent a request to Capt. 
Smith of the Volage, to change his position to an- 
other which he specified. The reasons which he 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 193 

assigned, induced Captain S. to accord with his 
wishes. The ships removed some distance, and 
anchored. Soon after, the Chinese fleet, consisting 
of nine and twenty junks, bore down upon the frig- 
ate and sloop, and almost surrounded them. Capt. 
Smith sent them word that this was very incorrect, 
— that he had complied with their request in re- 
moving— -and that now, he must demand of them to 
leave him immediately, or he should feel himself 
under the necessity of opening a fire upon them. 
This message being entirely disregarded, and the re- 
quest to the commissioner having been returned 
sealed, the ships weighed anchor, and commenced 
the work of destruction. The fire was returned by 
the Chinese, and they acted with great bravery ; 
but their resistance was of no account. Two of 
their boats were sunk — one blew up — and several 
ran on shore. Hundreds of poor creatures were 
destroyed, while the English lost not a soul. Not 
an individual was even wounded. The mast of the 
Hyacinth, the sloop of war, was split ; but no other 
damage was sustained. They might have destroyed 
all, but mercy triumphed. The Chinese are silent. 
They say the fates are against them. 

* On the day before yesterday, one or two parties 
were attacked at Kow-Loon, near Hong-Kong, 
having gone on shore for exercise. Two men were 
wounded. We hear there has been a skirmishing 
since, but the rumor is vague. The ships have gone 
to Hong-Kong. May He who rides upon the whirl- 
wind and directs the storm, overrule these sad events 



9 



194 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

to the speedy establishment of universal peace in 
the world. 

"November 10. — The cool weather which set in 
with the month, lasted only a few days ; since which 
it has been sufficiently warm to be agreeable. The 
atmosphere is delightfully pure, although occasion- 
ally we have a cloudy day, and a little rain. No 
farther news." 

"February 5, 1840. — I am often out among the 
Fokien part of the population, talking to them about 
the true religion. Generally the reception is very 
good. They are a frank, lively, unsuspicious, hos- 
pitable race. They gather round, and listen at 
times with interest ; although, very frequently, they 
evidently care very little about what is said. A 
few days ago, I entered a hut in the fields, where the 
owner was employed weighing out driblets of opium, 
to poor miserable objects, who could only afford to 
purchase a few cash worth at the time. There is 
much reason to believe its use is very prevalent. 

u Yesterday, the priests in a Budh temple ap- 
proached very near where we were standing, and 
went through their mummeries as if no one was 
present. The day before several laymen expressed 
the same shamelessness in the worship of their dumb 
idols. Mahommedans I have seen do the same. 

"February 11. — Weather fine and healthful, nei- 
ther too warm nor cold. 

" To-day, in our rounds among the natives, we 
entered a house in the fields, where thev were smok- 
ing opium. Being very poor, they could not afford 
to smoke expensively, and hence could consume 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 195 

only between one and two cents worth at the time. 
Two of them were lying down, as is their custom, 
one of whom very fearlessly prepared his pipe, and 
indulged himself in our presence. Vain are all the 
threats of government. The menace of death itself 
does not alarm them. In the company was a young 
man of twenty-five, whose complexion and eyes and 
teeth all gave infallible signs of the powerfully dele- 
terious influence of the drug. He said he had been 
addicted to the habit several years ; and wished to 
know whether I had any medicine, which would as- 
sist him to overcome the effects of abandoning its 
use. His appearance w r as prepossessing ; and the 
facility with which he spoke three of the dialects of 
the language, deeply interested me in his case. I 
spoke to them of the evils of the vice, and endeav- 
ored to impress upon them the grand truths of 
Christianity. In two or three other houses we were 
received with so much cordiality, and they listened 
with so much apparent animation and intelligence 
to what was said about their eternal interests, that 
I felt encouraged. In one house, several women 
opposed us by all the arguments they could muster, 
in favor of their idolatries. 

" The Catholic priests appear to enter the country 
and return at pleasure. We often see strange faces 
among them ; and then they disappear, as if there 
was a constant tide setting into the empire and re- 
turning. Yesterday, two of them were seen com- 
ing from within, in Chinese clothes, and with a gun 
on the shoulder of one of them. When shall we be 
able thus to enter ?" 



196 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

"June 5. — Last evening, commenced a social 
meeting for the Chinese. Five were present — four 
strangers, and my teacher. They read understand- 
ing^, and appeared to comprehend perfectly all 
my explanations. Oh, for the Lord's presence and 
blessing." 

" July 20. — In the evening I went out among the 
people, and some of them spoke lightly of the name 
of Jesus. I endeavored to reprove them, and rea- 
son with them ; but my own inability to impress 
them, and the carnality of their minds, appeared so 
exceedingly great, that I felt that a lively faith is 
indispensable in such a work. Other minor trials 
have been added to the above, to wean me from 
self — from any inordinate dependence upon others — 
from the world — and to fix my eye and heart upon 
Him who is with us alway. 

u 27. — This morning, in passing without one of 
the city gates on my way to the sea-shore, I saw a 
woman almost in the path I was pursuing, with 
some one lying near her, apparently asleep. As I 
approached her, she manifested signs of deep grief, 
and I then thought that the object lying near her 
was a sick child. On coming up to the spot, I per- 
ceived that the lad was lying as though in a very 
gentle sleep — rather pale, but not emaciated. The 
woman's sorrow induced me to examine him ; when, 
to my surprise, I found that life was extinct. His 
body was very warm, and my conclusion was that 
he had just expired. The grief of the mother be- 
came very great, when I told her that he was dead. 
My own heart sank within me at her deplorable 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 197 

condition. I could offer her no relief. Indeed I 
could scarcely understand a word of her dialect. 
There was no indication of much poverty, either in 
her dress, or that of her deceased child. On my 
return, I found them engaged in their superstitious 
rites — burning tapers — covering the body with gold 
and silver paper — and offering fruits to the departed 
spirit. The father, and another fine looking child, 
were then present. The poor mother was dressing 
the body of her eldest son (as she called him), with 
a bleeding heart, for his interment. The coffin was 
brought before I left the scene. Oh, the horrors of 
heathenism ! — the ignorance of everything spiritual 
— the absence of everything consolatory. 

"August 10. — Yesterday we heard definitely — - 
what rumor had whispered a day before — that Mr. 
Stanton had been seized, and was at Canton. We 
thank God that he has not perished, and pray that 
he may be yet restored unto us. As far as we can 
gather from the Chinese, he was seized by six men ; 
led on by the petty officer who was promoted for 
burning the Spanish vessel Bilbaino, and for destroy- 
ing several of the crew of the Black Joke. He 
had been watching a good opportunity two days. 
Whether Mr. Stanton resisted or not w^ cannot 
tell ; although he was seen at Tae Peng, at half-past 
five in the evenin*g, wounded in the head, and his 
clothes stained with blood. His hands were tied 
behind him, and he appeared very languid. He had 
neither hat, stockings, nor shoes. The following 
day he was taken to Canton ; and was soon after- 
ward brought before many of the high officers of 



198 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

government — the hong merchants and others — and 
underwent a course of questioning which lasted 
about six or seven hours. The questions were on 
very many subjects, and very minutely on some of 
them. He answered with great candor and intre- 
pidity. They began by asking of what country he 
was. He replied of England. For what object did 
you come ? As a teacher. To whom ? To Mrs. 
Turner's family. Why did you remain after she 
returned ? To teach the Gospel. Mr. S. gave a 
brief outline of its precepts and doctrines. Upon 
which, the Kwan Chow Foo, endeavoring to frighten 
him, said that all this was a mere fabrication : that 
he had secretly inquired, and ascertained that he 
was engaged in the opium traffic. Turning to the 
hong merchants, he asked whether they were not 
aware that he dealt in opium. They all replied that 
he was not a merchant, but was what he professed 
to be. Then, said the inquirer, you are guilty of a 
high misdemeanor in attempting to propagate a cor- 
rupt religion, and are liable to punishment accord- 
ing to law. He then asked, Are there other English 
at Macao? Yes, many. This created much ex- 
citement, and many whispers ; it having been offi- 
cially reported that all the English had been driven 
from Macao. They inquired about his opinion of 
the opium trade, w r hich he did not hesitate to give 
them. 

" They were very particular in their interroga- 
tions respecting the English expedition ; their num- 
ber — their object in coming — why they had taken 
Chusan — fired on Amoy and captured the junks. 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 199 

" Whether from the fearlessness of his manner, or 
the boldness of his replies, or some other cause, they 
tried to terrify him. They threatened him with 
torture ; to which he replied that they might take 
his life — it was of very little consequence — and he 
had no dread of dying — but that such an act would 
expose them to a fearful retribution from his coun- 
trymen, who w r ould now demand him as soon as 
they heard where he was, and would probably take 
the forts if he was not surrendered. The Chinese 
who heard the examination were astonished at his 
courage. They said, * he had very strong heart ' — 
' he no fear that mandarin. 5 Our last reports are, 
that he is in a pretty comfortable situation — has 
changes of garments allowed — fowls to eat — attend- 
ance, and Chinese books to read. 

" August 19. — A memorable day for Macao. We 
have witnessed an engagement between the English 
and the Chinese ; if it be an engagement when the 
fighting is almost all on one side — which lasted from 
about two p. m. to five. Captain Smith, who has 
charge of her Britannic majesty's forces here, de- 
manded the release of Mr. Stanton from the Portu- 
guese governor, on whose territory — understood to 
be neutral ground, and where the English would be 
protected — he had been seized. The authorities of 
the place immediately applied to the To Tae, the 
officer appointed by the Chinese to conduct business 
with the Portuguese ; and the To Tae proceeded in 
person to Canton, to intercede for Mr. Stanton. 
Two days ago he returned, not only without effect- 
ing his object, but with a reinforcement of soldiers, 



200 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

for the express purpose of seizing all the English 
they could. Upon the best authority, it was ascer- 
tained that some thousands of soldiers were to be 
here soon, with a high Chinese military officer at 
their head, to aid in seizing and fighting the English. 
Captain Smith had an interview with the governor 
last evening, and the latter promised that he would 
not interfere, should Capt. S. attack the soldiers at 
the barrier and in the adjacent temple. Two sloops 
anchored at less than half a mile from the place, and 
opened their batteries upon the fort at the barrier. 
The fire was returned for a short time and then 
ceased. At about three or half-past three o'clock 
the troops landed — probably two hundred and fifty 
or three hundred of them — and after firing several 
volleys from a field-piece, which was scarcely an- 
swered, they proceeded to the barrier ; and finding 
none or very few Chinese there, immediately took 
possession of it and kept up a sharp fire for a while, 
apparently upon the war junks near. There was a 
great deal of firing upon the temple and the war 
junks, although both were almost entirely protected 
by an intervening hill. The people and soldiers ran 
in almost every direction, scarcely offering any 
resistance. The Chinese say that they were not 
prepared to fight, their powder being in another 
place, and their officers being greatly alarmed. Af- 
ter burning the lodgings at the barrier, and blowing 
up some of the buildings, the troops re-embarked. 
The greatest confusion prevailed among the Chinese. 
They made off as fast as possible from the neighbor- 
ing villages, carrying their valuable articles with 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 201 

them. The cries of the women and children, and 
their attempts to flee, were distressing. Oh, the hor- 
rors of war ! We w T ere on a neighboring hill, and 
had a good view of the engagement. 

u August 20. — This afternoon we walked out to 
the scene of conflict. Never have the Chinese ap- 
peared so civil, indeed, so deferential. We passed 
through the barrier on ground seldom trodden by- 
European or American feet, meeting with no resist- 
ance — not a soldier to be seen. The uniform testi- 
mony of the Chinese is, that not more than six were 
killed. The authority is too good to be questioned : 
our own friends and servants living near the spot, 
affirming the same. The reason is obvious. They 
soon fled from the barrier, where they were screened 
by battlements of sand, which no ball could pene- 
trate : and the temple, and the junks, and the shore 
on the inner harbor were nearly all protected by a 
central swell of land extending over almost all the 
space at which they directed their fires. The tem- 
ple was hit in only one or two places ; but the 
buildings at the barrier were nearly demolished. 
Five or seven-and-twenty guns (I have forgotten 
which) were spiked — seventeen of them command- 
ing the ships ; but as they were not on wheels so as 
to be drawn behind the banks of sand, the soldiers 
preferred running to exposing themselves to the fire 
of the ships. 

" A letter from Canton, about our dear brother 
Stanton, states that while he has enough to eat and 
clothes to wear, he complains much of the noise. 
We fear from this, he is in apartments in the com- 

9* 



202 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

mon prison, and that these are the noises of the poor 
depraved prisoners." 

"September 10. — For two or three weeks, or per- 
haps more, there has been a very perceptible change 
in the weather. The nights have been cooler, and 
no part of the day quite so hot as before. It is still 
very warm, especially when there is little or no 
wind, which has been the case lately. The atmos- 
phere is hazy, having the appearance of Indian sum- 
mer in America. 

"All quiet. No news from our captive friend. 
None from the north." 

" October 23. — We hear to-day, through a Catho- 
lic priest, that an Italian missionary had been put to 
death by the express command of the Emperor. The 
one they have in prison at Canton has been cruelly 
treated. Of Stanton we hear nothing." 

"December 12. — This evening, our beloved friend 
and brother Stanton was restored to us. Thanks to 
Him who ruleth in the heavens." 

These last entries conclude Mr. Abeel's journal 
in reference to the opium war. It was not brought 
to an end until months after this date ; but he was 
called to leave the scene of excitement, and perform 
a missionary tour to the different islands of the 
Eastern Archipelago. His journals and letters, 
however, allude to its termination, and describe the 
important consequences arising from it — conse- 
quences which operated in deciding the future posi- 
tion of the missionary, and greatly increasing his 
usefulness. 

We see but few remarks of a strictly religious 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 203 

nature in the journal, as it is purely historical in its 
character. But we have a full record of his spiritual 
exercises during this time ; and one point is remark- 
able, that amidst all the tumults, excitements, and 
changes connected with and arising from these hos- 
tilities, he was undisturbed in his religious feelings. 
His communion with God was as calm as though 
every external event was propitious. He had striven 
long and prayerfully to acquire the ability to live 
above the influence of temporal changes ; and in 
some degree, and, it would seem in a great degree, 
he had succeeded. One would scarcely judge of his 
position as being in the midst of all the excitement 
and uncertainty of war, by reading the accounts of 
his feelings as described at this time in his diary. 
His uninterrupted and quiet enjoyment, is a beauti- 
ful exemplification of the precious elevating influ- 
ence which faith exerts in the soul ; leading man to 
live as seeing Him who is invisible, and to realize 
the strength of the Almighty arm on which he 
leans. 



CHAPTER X. 

According to previous arrangement, and in pur- 
suance of the advice of the American Board of 
Missions, Mr. Abeel prepared to visit the different 
islands of the Eastern Archipelago. He designed 
especially to examine the field at Borneo, where the 
denomination with which he was connected had 
established missionary stations. As the difficulties 
between Great Britain and China had not yet termi- 
nated, a favorable opportunity was afforded him to 
engage in this service without injury to the interests 
of the field he had left. In company with Mr. and 
Mrs. Brown, who had been laboring with him in the 
Chinese mission, he sailed for Singapore, where he 
arrived the last of April, 1841. 

During the voyage, he found the usual delight 
and enjoyment in the solitude and silence of the 
ocean. These seasons of rest not only strengthened 
his physical powers, but also quickened his spiritual 
graces, by the undisturbed opportunities for reflec- 
tion and devotion thus afforded. He writes : — 

" This is the third Sabbath we have spent at sea 
on the way to Singapore. The change has been 
profitable to me, for I enjoy the sea, when I can 
have a place to myself. I love to trace the constel- 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 205 

lations, and have the mind expanded by the magnifi- 
cence of Jehovah's works. What conceptions are 
we thus enabled to obtain of the character of our 
God and Savior ! My faith is sometimes staggered, 
but why should it be ? His love is equal to His 
power. The more I am overwhelmed with His glo- 
rious majesty, the more ought I to be satisfied with 
His infinite love/' 

At Singapore, Mr. Abeel found a home in the 
house of Mr. Keasbury, one of his own spiritual 
children, and a missionary of the London society. 
He remained here, (with the exception of one month 
spent at Malacca) until September. He preached 
the Gospel at Singapore during his visit, every Sab- 
bath, both in the Chinese and English languages. 
He was invited to occupy the pulpit of the Eng- 
lish Chapel, w T hich was then without a regular 
preacher ; and performed all the duties acceptably 
and usefully. In this place, it will be remembered, 
he had in former days been very successful in win- 
ning souls ; and now the people were ready and 
anxious to hear the word of life again from his lips. 
If we may judge of the character of his public ser- 
vices by his personal experience at this time, we 
may suppose that he was deeply spiritual in his 
preaching ; for we have records in his diary, of sea- 
sons of peculiar enjoyment and engagedness in the 
Master's service. He surely must have communi- 
cated some of these feelings to those to whom he 
preached Jesus. He writes, — 

"July 25. — A day of spiritual life. For more 
than a week I have been dwelling on the inexhausti- 



206 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

ble 1st chapter of Ephesians, particularly the third, 
fourth, and fifth verses. How near it brings God to 
the soul, to think, that before the foundation of the 
world He had us in His unchangeable purposes pre- 
destinated unto the adoption of children by Jesus 
Christ unto Himself; and that all the spiritual bless- 
ings we now enjoy, are in accordance with this de- 
cree. Oh, how holy and blameless should I be be- 
fore Him in love. To-day I have been sitting at the 
feet of the heavenly- minded Fletcher, hearing his 
last words, and attending his death-bed. How glo- 
rious heaven appeared." 

" August 1. — A week of more than ordinary spir- 
ituality. To-day, though tried by feelings of bodily 
discomfort, I was mercifully assisted in preaching 
the everlasting Gospel to a large and attentive audi- 
ence. 

" August 15. — Have been struggling for more life. 
I long to get up to the height which Fletcher calls 
a trifling acquisition ; ■ so to hang upon God by 
faith, as to feel no departure from him, and no ris- 
ing in the heart against him.' Of the latter, I am 
not sensible ; but if insensibility is wandering, I can- 
not speak thus of the former." 

" September 12. — There is a life, which, like some 
of the richest mines, lies far beneath. It is delight- 
ful to be in a lively and spiritual frame of mind ; but 
it is important to know that the work of grace can 
go on with great power when we ' walk in darkness 
and see no light,' or when * the fig-tree does not blos- 
som ;' or even when it appears as though God means 
to slay us. Submission to the divine will — humbling 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 207 

the soul before God — laboring to subjugate all its 
evil thoughts and feelings — striving to cultivate holy- 
tempers and affections, such as forgiveness, forbear- 
ance, fervent love to others, disinterested and ex- 
pansive kindness to all,* and every mode of self- 
denial which can withdraw the soul from sensible 
objects, lay it low in the dust, and make Christ all 
and in all in its estimation — are far more conducive 
to sanctification, than a more joyous frame of mind, 
or a longing after the ' rest that remaineth.' While 
the Spirit is purging the corruptions or restoring the 
disorder of the heart, there cannot be uniform happi- 
ness. Faith in an Almighty, all-sufficient Savior, 
will keep the soul in peace ; but the struggle at 
times will be severe, and the power of the enemy 
within, will take away comfort if it ctnnot hope. 
God too will at times withdraw a lively sense of his 
presence, that he may teach us our total dependence 
and other important lessons. At least such are His 
usual dealings until the worst enemies are subdued, 
and there is a good degree of conformity to the will 
of Christ." 

In October, Mr. Abeel visited his brethren at 
Borneo. His heart was greatly encouraged and 
refreshed at beholding laborers from his own land 
and of his own denomination, who were striving to 
fight against and overcome every difficulty which 
met them in their peculiarly arduous field, and to 
plant the standard of the cross on this benighted 
island. In letters written to the United States at 
this time, he alludes to this visit, and to the work 
in which these brethren were engaged. 



208 MEMOIR OP DAVID ABEEL. 

" Pontianak, Borneo j Oct. 20, 1841. 
u I commence this letter as you perceive, on this 
most benighted island. It has been a great gratifi- 
cation to spend nearly a fortnight with the beloved 
brethren here. I did not anticipate leaving them 
so soon, but I find myself affected by the climate, 
and there is no certainty when another ship will go 
to Singapore. I came first to Sambas, where Bro- 
ther Doty spent a long time. I knew before leaving 
Singapore that he had gone to Pontianak, but as no 
vessel offered for that port, I took this opportunity, 
knowing that the places were not far distant, and 
there must be constant communication between 
them. We were most kindly received and hospi- 
tably entertained by the acting president, who sent 
us in a gov?rnment prow to Pontianak. Borneo is 
quite a new scene, a place suited to the character 
of the men who inhabit it. At the Dutch stations 
there is some appearance of civilization, but other 
parts are wild indeed. With the exception of Mrs. 
Youngblood, who feels the effects of the climate, 
they are all in good health. The' field is very dif- 
ferent from China. The inhabitants, J mean the 
Aborigines, are almost as degraded as their nature 
will admit of ; they are not numerous, and do not 
live in compact towns. Where the missionaries 
now are there are no Dyaks. They have a Chinese 
and a Malay school, but hope, when their number is 
increased, to give their principal attention to the 
Dyaks, who reside farther in the interior. Their 
own journals in the Missionary Herald will give 
you the best information respecting . the country 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 209 

and its inhabitants. I wish they had a couple of 
well educated young physicians, to go with them 
when they feel strong enough to take up their line 
of march in the interior." 

"Singapore, Nov. 3, 1841. 

" I have just returned jrom a visit to Borneo. 
Myself and a young brother missionary took pas- 
sage in a native vessel, commanded and sailed by 
Bugis and Malays, and went first to Sambas, one of 
the Dutch settlements, and thence to Pontianak, the 
station of our missionaries. Much of this island 
has the appearance of extreme wildness. As we 
passed up and down the large rivers, it scarcely 
seemed, a part of the way, as if any human being 
had preceded us. The jungle encroached upon the 
banks of the rivers ; and, but for the sparseness of 
the forest trees in some places, we should have had 
no evidence of the presence of man. We were 
greatly amused and entertained, at the number and 
variety of monkeys, and especially at their adven- 
turous gambols. The Dutchmen treated us with 
great kindness, and after entertaining us several 
days at Sambas, sent us in a government boat to 
Pontianak. The coast is so infested with pirates, 
that it is not safe to venture in an unarmed vessel. 
The most numerous of these pirates are in pursuit 
of human heads. They go forth sometimes by 
thousands, and woe to all who are not prepared to 
resist them. A Dutch schooner of war had an en- 
counter with a large fleet of their prows just before 
our arrival ; and by the aid of a well-managed 



210 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

eighteen-pounder, destroyed several of them, and 
put the rest to flight. You can easily fancy my 
pleasure in meeting a number of my old friends in 
this distant, desolate island. One of the families 
had left the place a few months before, on account 
of the illness of Mrs. Nevius ; but all the rest were 
well and happy. Perhaps I should except Mrs. 
Youngblood, whose health is not as good as we 
could wish. Borneo has every appearance of a 
missionary field. It would soon prove fatal to all 
missionary romance. The missionaries are hoping 
soon to advance in the interior, and fix themselves 
among the Dyaks. I visited one of their villages. 
They certainly need all our help to raise them from 
their extreme degradation, and restore to them the 
consciousness of their rational and immortal nature. 
Let us always remember those self-denying laborers, 
who have cheerfully attempted such a work of faith, 
and patience, and extreme toil. I very soon found 
that the low, damp soil of Pontianak would not suit 
my delicate lungs ; and having fulfilled my errand, 
I took passage in a Bujis prow, and returned to this 
place." 

After remaining for a short time at Singapore on 
his return from Borneo, he embarked for Macao, 
which place he reached on the 21st day of Decem- 
ber, after having been absent nine months. 

Under date of January 1st, he reviews his labors 
and the course of events during the past year. 

" The greater part of the past year was spent in 
other places; visiting Singapore, Malacca, and Bor- 
neo. I have suffered in health, and realized that 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 211 

life was very uncertain. The blessed Spirit has, I 
trust, been carrying on his work, but I am distressed 
to find how much remains to be done. I want my 
inmost soul regulated by the spirit of holiness. 

' Jesus, if mine indeed thou art, 
Give me Thy meek and lowly mind, 
And stamp Thine image on my heart.' — 

The circular issued by the missionaries at China 
will show what events had occurred during Mr. 
Abeel's absence. It is inserted because it continues 
the history of the mission — affords an interesting 
view of affairs — and expresses the anticipations of 
the brethren concerning the results of the war, 
founded on the promises of Divine revelation, which 
were afterwards partially realized. 

" Macao, January 1, 1842. 

" The near approach of the appointed time for 
the promulgation of the Gospel in China, we think, 
was never so clearly indicated by the signs of the 
times as at present. We seem to be on the eve of 
a new era, when the barrier against ingress to this 
empire must fall. Those who have ruled here for 
near two centuries, and who always have been 
more or less inimical to the religion of Jesus, must 
soon either grant free intercourse, or allow the reins 
of government to be wrested from their hands. Af- 
ter the violent rupture in March 1839, conciliatory 
measures were pursued toward this government for 
a long time, but without any good results. Settle 
the existing difficulties on any just principles, this 



212 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

government would not. If, as some think, her Bri- 
tannic majesty's plenipotentiaries erred on the score 
of pliancy, by receding too far from the high ground 
which they had a right to take, yet certain it is, 
that by their so doing, the very worst features of 
the Chinese government were more fully developed. 
After many months had been occupied in vain at- 
tempts to negotiate, it became clear to every ob- 
server, that, in order to lay the foundation for free 
and friendly intercourse with this nation, on safe 
and honorable terms, such as are recognized by all 
civilized states, recourse must be had to restraint 
and coercion. 

" Regarding the character of the Chinese govern- 
ment, wrong opinions are entertained by many, if 
not by most people, who view the constitution and 
laws as being equitable in their character, and mild 
in their operation. They are so indeed, as far, 
doubtless, as those of any pagan nation ever were. 
Still in many respects they are unjust in the letter 
and cruel in their action. It was the opinion of 
Dr. Morrison that no man could hold office under 
this government, and conform to its rules and cus- 
toms, and at the same time live in obedience to the 
doctrines and precepts of the Bible. According to 
the penal code of the Chinese, the profession and 
practice of Christianity are capital crimes ; and it 
is scarcely a twelvemonth since an European mis- 
sionary suffered the penalty of this law. The for- 
eigner, however peaceful and well disposed, may 
not go into the interior of the empire. The native, 
too, without even the shadow of guilt, may be, and 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 213 

not unfrequently is involved by the evil doings of 
others. High officers of state are made responsible 
for events, over which it is impossible for them to 
exercise any control. The degradation of Lin, 
Keshen, and others, are instances of the unjust and 
cruel bearing of the Chinese policy ; and the self- 
immolation of Yakien and several others during the 
present war, are melancholy proofs of the same. 
So averse is this policy to any amicable arrange- 
ment with foreigners, that the Emperor has threat- 
ened with the utmost severity of the laws any and 
all who may presume to propose terms of reconcili- 
ation with the ' rebellious barbarians.' 

" Such being the character of the Chinese gov- 
ernment, and all attempts made by the late pleni- 
potentiaries having failed, a change of policy, and 
the appointment of a new representative on the part 
of the British crown, with a view to meet and over- 
come the existing difficulties, were no matter of 
surprise. Sir Henry Pottinger, her Britannic maj- 
esty's plenipotentiary, arrived in China on the 10th 
of August, and landed next day at Macao. 

" Our former letters will have made you ac- 
quainted with public occurrences here down to the 
10th of July last. On the 21st and 26th of that 
month, this part of the empire was visited by two of 
those awful hurricanes called tyfoons, which make 
such dreadful devastation wherever they move on 
sea or land. On both the occasions no inconsider- 
able damage was sustained by the foreign shipping, 
and her Britannic majesty's plenipotentiaries hardly 
escaped with their lives from shipwreck. Great 



214 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

numbers of Chinese perished, and their losses were 
many times greater than those of the English. Yet, 
strange to say, the Emperor and his court consider 
these storms as divine judgments sent by the gods 
to punish the barbarians. 

" Sir Henry Pottinger having remained ten days 
at Macao, repaired to Hong-Kong, and there joined 
the expedition, ready to proceed northward. On 
the 25th of August the forces reached Amoy. The 
next day its fortifications were destroyed and the 
city taken, but not without severe losses on the part 
of the Chinese. 

" The northward movement of the ships was so 
impeded by adverse winds, that Tinghai was not 
taken till the 1st of October. Chinghai, on the 
main, with all its defences, fell on the 10th, and 
Ningpo on the 13th of the same month. At Ting- 
hai and Chinghai, as well as at Amoy, the Chinese 
made great resistance, and suffered severe losses, 
all their forts and ships being destroyed, and large 
numbers of their troops left dead on the field. The 
number of killed during the year is probably not 
less than four thousand. 

" You will be anxious no doubt to learn what has 
been the effect of all these operations. They have 
shown the Chinese the superior skill and power of 
the foreigner, have filled multitudes of the people 
with distress and consternation, and excited the 
wrath of the Emperor and his advisers. At the 
same breath the Son of Heaven reproaches his high 
officers for their weakness, and the invaders for 
their temerity. Two sovereigns, he says, cannot 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 215 

stand together under the same firmament. The de- 
cree for extermination has gone forth, and the forces 
are rallying at all points, determined to contend 
unto the uttermost. Aware of this, large accessions 
of strength will soon be made to the invading forces : 
and by midsummer, w T e expect that Sir Henry Pot- 
tinger, her Britannic majesty's * minister extraordi- 
nary to the court of Peking,' will be at the capital. 
Once there, he must either receive overtures of 
peace, or enter the court and become dictator. The 
reigning dynasty must yield, or perish in the strug- 
gle to maintain its supremacy. Possibly this strug- 
gle may be prolonged for years ; but whether it be 
long or short, we feel certain that it will eventually 
introduce a new and better order of things. 

" Hence we have drawn the cheering conclusion, 
that the acceptable year of the Lord — the set time 
to favor the land of Sinim — is at hand. In either 
case, whether the Emperor yield or resist, toleration 
must be obtained. God has often made use of the 
strong arm of civil power to prepare the way for 
his own kingdom, that kingdom which is righteous- 
ness and peace, which cometh not with observation, 
and is not of this world. Of this there are many 
instances : a very recent one is afforded in Western 
Asia. There the power of the false prophet claimed 
supremacy, and the worshipper of Immanuel was 
stigmatized as a dog. But political revolutions, 
without any reference to creeds, have there entirely 
changed the aspect of the religious world. Since 
the termination of the hostile operations in the 
Mediterranean last year, a firman has been issued 



216 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

by the Sublime Porte of Constantinople, scarcely 
less favorable to the interests of true religion, than 
was the decree of Cyrus, when he gave to the chil- 
dren of the captivity permission to go back to their 
own land, and there rebuild the temple and revive 
the worship of Jehovah. 

" In China we see a supremacy no less lofty and 
unjust in its pretensions, not only taking inalienable 
rights from man, but presumptuously encroaching 
on Jehovah's prerogatives, attempting to abrogate 
his laws, and stigmatizing the religion of Jesus 
Christ as base and wicked. This supremacy is, we 
think, about to be broken down, and so much tolera- 
tion and protection granted, that every man may 
worship God according to the dictates of his own 
conscience. 

" In view of such prospects, we know that you 
and all our Christian friends, will anxiously with us, 
watch the progress of events and each opening 
scene. Amid the distresses and perplexities which 
have overtaken the inhabitants of this land — by the 
introduction of opium, by the continuance of war, 
by inundations, by divisions of councils, by the 
tumults of the people — God is evidently carrying on 
His own great designs ; and in wrath He will remem- 
ber mercy, bring order out of confusion, good out 
of evil, and make even man's wickedness promo- 
tive of the Divine glory. His promises are sure, 
none can stay His hand ; the heathen shall be given 
to His Son, and all the ends of the earth praise Him 
as Lord of all. China and Japan are included in 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 217 

the Divine promises, and ere long will both be visited 
with the day-spring from on high. 

" The prospect of soon having access to 400,000,- 
000 of souls, or even to any considerable part of 
this number, ought to stimulate every true believer 
in Jesus, to awake to righteousness, to put on 
strength, and to come up to the Lord's help against 
the mighty. How great is the work here to be ac- 
complished ! How few are the means now in op- 
eration ! 

" In our religious services — social and public — 
the interest hitherto manifested has been continued. 
But, confined and restricted as we long have been, 
we ardently desire to enlarge our operations, to in- 
crease our labors, and to extend widely the influ- 
ences of that holy religion, for the propagation of 
which we have devoted our lives. We hope the 
great and dreadful evils which now affect this na- 
tion will soon be checked. It is painful to see thou- 
sands of our fellow-men cut down by the sword — 
tens of thousands reduced to beggary and death by 
an insidious poison — and hundreds of millions going 
mad after their dumb idols. It is impossible to dwell 
long on such scenes without deep emotion. But 
who can interpose? Who is able to hush these 
contending hosts and give peace ? Who can stay 
this flood of poison, and bring in the waters of life ? 
Who can cast down all these idols of wood and 
stone, and convert these millions of immortal beings 
to the worship of the living and true God ? Awake, 
put on thy strength, Oh arm of the Lord ! Awake ! 
For art not thou it, that shall wound the dragon ? 

10 



218 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

" Brethren pray for us — pray for China — pray 
that God will turn away His wrath, avert these 
evils, and save the people through the influences of 
the glorious Gospel of His dear Son." 

At his return, Mr. Abeel prepared to visit Ko- 
longsoo and examine its fitness as a missionary sta- 
tion. This was one of the ports in possession of 
the British, and afterwards opened to foreigners by 
the treaty between Great Britain and China. He 
thus records his impressions of the place : — 

" March 6. — Several Sabbaths w r ere spent at sea 
in the passage to this place. More than a week 
has elapsed since our arrival. I have reason to 
thank God for bringing me to this place. It ap- 
pears like an excellent opening for missionary labor. 
It is the very sphere I have desired and prayed for 
many years. This appears more like the beginning 
of missionary work in China, than anything I have 
yet seen. Now I feel my need of grace to improve 
the opportunity — I desire to look up for direction 
and assistance." 

It was concluded to settle at this point perma- 
nently, as affording a most favorable locality for 
missionary operations. Accordingly, in his next 
letter to the United States, he notices the fact of 
his settlement, and his delight at being permitted in 
the providence of God to occupy this new field. 

" Amoy, March 1st., 1842. 

"From the letters which I left at Macao, to be 
sent by the first opportunity, you knew my inten- 
tion to visit this place. It is the answer to many 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 219 

prayers, and the partial consummation of some of 
my most cheering hopes. Mr. Boone and myself 
left Macao on the 2nd ult., and Hong-Kong on the 
7th. We were seventeen days beating up the coast, 
with the exception of a day or two at anchor at one 
of the opium depots. The opium smugglers have 
taken possession of a small island on the coast, 
where they go on shore every day for recreation 
and amusement. They have formed roads, and 
purchased horses, and take their morning and af- 
ternoon exercise, although they prefer living in their 
ships. We have reason to believe that the smug- 
gling of this pernicious drug into the empire is at- 
tended with the loss, and often reckless destruction 
of life. It is doing incalculable injury to the nation. 
" On our arrival at this place, we went immediately 
to the commandant of the station, to whom we had a 
letter from Sir Henry Pottinger, the English pleni- 
potentiary, and whose wife is a pious lady and an 
acquaintance of Mr. Boone. We were most kindly 
received both by Major Cowper and his excellent 
lady, and have had every attention showed us. 
There is a multiplicity of empty houses on the island 
which Major C. took us around to see, and among 
which he allowed us to select a residence. The 
English have taken possession of a small island 
called Kolongsoo, separated from the city of Amoy 
by a strip of water probably less than half a mile 
wide. It is on this island that we have taken up our 
residence. It was thought safest for us to live within 
the line of the sentries ; and accordingly we are 
guarded every night, and cannot stir out ourselves 



220 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

after eight o'clock, without knowing the watch-word. 
It is sad to see the destruction of the houses and fur- 
niture, since the place was taken. The English 
scarcely injured the place at all ; but the unprinci- 
pled part of the native population have turned parts 
of it into a ruin since. We had not a door, nor a 
window-shutter, nor a whole floor when we selected 
our house. Some of this destruction, however, must 
be laid to the charge of the Bengalee camp followers ; 
who tear the houses to pieces, merely to get the wood 
for burning. As soon as we made choice of a house, 
we called in carpenters and masons, and have been 
most busily occupied ever since, in directing and 
overlooking them. The ship in which we came 
w T ent away quickly, and left us with no other quar- 
ters. No one here has accommodations for a guest. 
The first day we had the house cleaned, the brick 
floor repaired, and the front door made. Then came 
the Sabbath, and a pleasant one it was, in the qui- 
etude of our own dwelling. Monday morning we 
had window-shutters made, and bought a few chairs 
and a table, which were very good substitutes for 
our old boxes. To-day is Tuesday, and improve- 
ments are rapidly going on. I bought a Chinese 
bedstead of a soldier on Saturday. Our food is 
bought ready cooked at Amoy, and it tastes quite as 
well as if done by European cooks. True we have 
no great variety, but w T e need none. The Chinese 
make a kind of cake which is a substitute for bread. 
Indeed we want nothing but lively gratitude and cor- 
responding zeal." 

He now commenced missionary labor with an 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 221 

earnestness which was increased from the fact that 
he had been so long unable to work in his Master's 
cause, through the operations of the war. He thus 
describes his first missionary tour to the city of 
Amoy from Kolongsoo. 

" Kolongsoo, March 28, 1844. 

"I begin this letter to have it in readiness for the 
first opportunity. It must be sent to Macao, there to 
await the first ship, which ship may sail on its ar- 
rival or several months after. In regard to commu- 
nication, I feel that I have made another remove 
from you. In the favorable monsoon we are only 
about thirty six or forty-eight hours from Macao ; 
but this distance keep us in as much ignorance of 
the arrival and departure of ships there, as if we 
were so many days away. I wrote you soon after 
our arrival. Everything has gone on prosperously 
since. The repairs and necessary improvements of 
the house are finished. We have furnished it in 
missionary style, w T ith the cheapest articles. 

" April 5. — For several evenings, I have either 
been exhausted or engaged at the usual time for 
writing. During this interval, we have made our 
first visit to the city of Amoy. We went in com- 
pany with the chief man who comes to this place. 
He took us through a few streets to his own house, 
where he gave us a sumptuous Chinese dinner which 
made us both sick. There were about a dozen dif- 
ferent courses, each dish consisting of a mixture of 
several kinds of meats, fish, and vegetables, in a va- 
riety of combinations. When we came away, he 



222 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

sent with us a present of tea and Windsor soap. He 
spent several years in visiting different settlements 
of the English and Dutch, which accounts for his 
having the soap. On our way through the streets 
we attracted great attention, and drew together a 
crowd of the idle and curious, but they did not at- 
tempt to molest us. Some boys attempted to frighten 
us by crying out, ' Seize them, seize them.' We were 
struck with the number of vessels of all sizes ; and 
with the compactness of the buildings, and the 
crowded population of the place. This is the great 
feature of China, and this renders it so important as 
a missionary field. We had a nice little congrega- 
tion to preach to in our friend's house. Oh, that 
God would soon raise up native helpers in this 
work. 

"April 9. — My fellow missionary leaves me in 
the morning for Macao, hoping soon to return with 
Mrs. Boone and children. I shall be alone ; but 
seasons of aloneness I find to be profitable. I say 
seasons, for no missionary ought to be alone in a 
station for a continuance. Lately we have had a 
spell of dull, damp weather, which has prevented 
our doing much direct missionary work, but we have 
no lack of visitors. To-day we hear there are seven 
Roman Catholic priests on their way to this place. 
God reigns, and this must be our confidence. We 
have come hither to do His work, and to carry out 
His plans." 

Thus, for two months Mr. Abeel was left to labor 
alone at Amoy, suffering part of the time from sick- 
ness. But he was exceedingly happy, in his new 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 223 

position. He was then relieved by the arrival of 
other missionaries. 

During the time embraced in this chapter, he was 
called to experience severe trials in the loss of both 
of his parents. Although in the providence of God 
he had been removed from them for years, yet few 
persons ever possessed a deeper affection for thei^ 
kindred. Hence he was deeply affected, when the 
message came that they had been cut down by the 
hand of death. He received intelligence of his 
father's death while at Singapore, in May. This 
event had been expected, for there had been a lin- 
gering disease of many months' duration. As soon 
as he heard of it he sent the following letter to his 
mother. 

" Singapore, May 5th, 1841. 

"My dear Mother. — Since my arrival I have heard 
through Keasbury of the long expected event. It 
has appeared so inevitable for a long time, that 1 
was but little surprised when he gave this reply 
(which under other circumstances would have been 
so shocking) to my inquiries. He had lately received 
several letters from New Brunswick. Those for me 
have probably gone on to China. I should like to 
know all the particulars of the last sad scene ; but I 
conclude that he was never restored to full con- 
sciousness until he awoke in eternity. I feel for 
you, my dear mother, in the change it has made in 
your life. It grieves me to think how lonely you 
must be, and how much at a loss for employment. 
Poor dear father was an object of such incessant 



224 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

care, that the change must be very great. I am 
thankful that there are so many alleviations, and I 
feel particularly happy at such a time, that you and 

have residing with you. May the 

Lord render this event exceedingly profitable to us 
all. Oh, that we all might dwell much upon the 
eternal state of the soul. A few more years, and 
we shall all meet, if we are faithful unto death. 
You, no doubt, realize, (probably now more than 
ever,) that the time of your departure draws nigh. 
I hope you feel, that there is nothing dreadful in 
death — that Christ has extracted its sting — and that 
He is yours, and you are His. May you feel that 
desire to depart to be with Him, which renders 
every thought of death delightful. Having much 
time at your command, you will have the opportu- 
nity of keeping your mind fixed upon those truths, 
which are so animating and sanctifying. The char- 
acter and work of our blessed Redeemer is the most 
precious of all subjects ; and, in and through Him, 
the love and kindness of our Heavenly Father, is 
full of consolation to the -soul. What a heaven is 
before us — the presence, and likeness, and favor of 
the great God ! To see Him whom our souls love, 
who first loved us — to be more intimately related to 
Him, than we can be to any on earth — to have Him 
admit us to His warmest affections, and show us His 
whole heart — to be forever filled with His fulness — 
incapable of sinning against Him, and qualified to 
love Him with all our powers — are some of the 
sources of that enjoyment to which we shall so soon 
be translated. May the prospect be a continual 



MEMOIR OF DAVID AJ3EEL. 225 

feast to my beloved mother. Then when the hour 
comes, you shall lift up your head with joy. Oh, 
that we all may prepare for this glory, by cultivating 
those tempers and habits of mind which can alone 
render the prospect cheering, and fit us for the 
reality." 

In July of 1842, he was again bowed down by the 
sad intelligence that his mother had also gone to her 
rest. This was a greater affliction, because it was 
unexpected, having occurred after a very short ill- 
ness. Her death was a precious exemplification of 
the power of religion to sustain the timid soul in the 
last trying hour ; and to enable the saint who had 
lived in many doubts, to behold the face of the Mas- 
ter in the end, " without a cloud between." She 
was deeply pious, but at the same time often filled 
with fear and doubts because of her unworthiness ; 
fears which had but little ground if aught could be 
judged by the fruits of her life and her devotion to 
God's service. They often manifested themselves 
in a feeling of great timidity in regard to the ap- 
proach of death. But when the closing scene 
arrived, the Lord unveiled to her so clearly his love, 
and the fulness of Jesus, that she forgot to doubt or 
fear ; and her soul was filled with rejoicing. She 
died in peace, enjoying in her own heart the expe- 
rience of the Psalmist, u Though I walk through 
the valley of the shadow of death I will fear no evil, 
for thou art with me : thy rod, and thy staff they 
comfort me." 

The intelligence of his mother's death affected 

10* 



226 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

Mr. Abeel very deeply. He notices the event in his 
diary. 

"July 24. — Two days ago I received the afflictive 
news of my beloved mother's demise. I feel that it 
has rendered desolate the brightest scenes of earth. 
* I shall never see you again in this life,' was one 
of her last expressions. I believed it ; but though 
the parting was something like the bitterness of 
death, it was not death. Now, I feel that she is no 
more among the living — I thank the gracious Re- 
deemer for her triumph of faith. How often have I 
prayed that she might leave the world in this frame 
of mind. Oh, that this event may make me realize 
more than I do, that I am a stranger and sojourner 
here. Lord, I crave one blessing, a heart perfectly 
and perpetually consecrated to thee." 

In the following letter he makes mention of this 
same bereavement. 

"Kolongsoo, August 2, 1842. 

" Since I last wrote the sad news of our great be- 
reavement has reached me. Though I never ex- 
pected to see our dear departed mother again in the 
flesh, yet I feel that I have lost my best, my firmest 
earthly friend ; and that the light which gave the 
greatest charm to my native place and earthly 
home, has gone out. How desolate it must appear 
where she always was, to give us such an affection- 
ate welcome. Her's was a mother's deep, unvary- 
ing love, and we could always calculate upon it. 
How pure and free from selfishness it was. How 
the mind likes to dwell upon those qualities ; some 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 227 

of which, I have long thought, rendered her supe- 
rior to any other mother I ever knew. I become 
overwhelmed with sorrow when I think of our loss. 
Oh, how I long to receive the particulars of the 
closing scene. I received an overland letter from 

Mrs. — , which had been written before the 

event, but had not been mailed ; it contained a sen- 
tence or two, and referred to others which had been 
written, and were in readiness for a ship. I hope 
they may soon arrive, and give me such evidences 
of the triumphs of faith as I have prayed might be 
witnessed at this hour. We can have no other con- 
solation in the loss of our relatives and friends. I 
am exceedingly anxious, too, to hear what effect it 
has had upon you all. God in great mercy grant 
that it may arouse us all to the most diligent self-ex- 
amination — that if any of those of us who profess 
to be prepared for death, have rested our hopes 
on a false foundation, those delusions may be torn 
from us, and true repentance and genuine faith be 
wrought within us. And, Oh, may those of the 
family who evidently have no conception of the 
worth of their own souls, or the price which their 
redemption demanded, at last be brought to realize 
the pressing necessity of obtaining an interest in the 
great salvation without delay." 

Thus, new ties were formed to draw his soul from 
earth to that heaven of rest to which he was imper- 
ceptibly though rapidly hastening. 

We will occupy the rest of this chapter in quoting 
extracts from the journal of his labors at the new 



228 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

i 

station at Amoy and Kolongsoo. One fact imparts 
even greater interest to the many pleasing incidents 
recorded. This is the closing journal of Mr. Abeel's 
missionary labors. When it was finished his health 
entirely failed ; and he came to the land of his fath- 
ers to lay his bones with his kindred. And from his 
own expressions and the statements of facts, it will 
be seen that this was the most successful part of his 
missionary life. His knowledge of the language was 
more enlarged, and his influence increased ; so that 
he was able to preach the word, enjoying the confi- 
dence of those to whom he dispensed it. Dark and 
mysterious was that Providence which removed 
him from this field, when so well qualified for his 
work. 

The following extracts, while they are as brief as 
could possibly be made, present a faithful view of 
his closing missionary labors, and display the char- 
acter of that singular people to whom he broke the 
bread of life. 

"May 15, 1842. — The people at large are ex- 
tremely indifferent in respect to their religious senti- 
ments. Indeed they appear to have no systematic 
creed ; but they hold a confused jumble of opinions, 
often contradictory to each other. I asked the boy 
who has been living with us since our arrival, and 
whom we have endeavored to teach the unity of the 
Godhead and the wickedness of idol worship, what 
god he worshipped now ? He replied, ' Oh, I am 
not at all particular ; any one whose birth-day hap- 
pens to come along.' An abandoned, desperate fel- 
low, had been speaking of murdering men, with 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 229 

fiendish pleasure. I told him, if he pursued such a 
life, his soul would sink to hell after death. With a 
broad laugh he answered, ' That is a matter of the 
least consequence ;' meaning that if he did not suf- 
fer in this life, he had no solicitude about the suffer- 
ings of the next. The future is too indistinct and 
uncertain to arouse their fears. 

" May 17. — To-day we were reading about the 
poor widow, whose small offering was cast into the 
treasury.' My teacher attempted to illustrate the 
text by an anecdote. He said there was an old 
woman, who lived in a part of this province, and 
who requested the privilege of putting down her 
name to a subscription for a bell. It was an offer- 
ing to Budh, and the rich were giving of their abun- 
dance. When the old woman made her request, 
they looked with astonishment, and asked what she 
had to give. She took a cash, less than the thous- 
andth part of a dollar, and handed it to the collector. 
He threw it with disdain into a pond of water, add- 
ing that he supposed from her request that she had 
more than that to give. She replied, and her reply 
has been a proverb since — 'One cash, cheerfully 
bestowed (from penury,) is as meritorious as tens of 
thousands (from abundance.') The bell was cast, 
but its tones were most defective. It was recast, 
but with no better effect. At last, after many un- 
successful efforts, Budh appeared to the collector in 
a dream, and informed him that the bell would 
never give forth a good sound until the identical 
cash of the old woman was added to the materials. 
The pond was drained, the rejected cash found, the 



230 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

bell once more cast, and the tones were rich and 
clear. Thus, the deceiver sustains his cause by 
associating with a proverb which is in the mouths 
of many, a gross and fatal falsehood, which they 
equally believe/' 

"June, 1. — Yesterday, at the invitation of the 
senior naval officer, I embarked with him and oth- 
ers on board the iron steamer Medusa in the direc- 
tion of Tang-Wa, the capital of the district in which 
Amoy is situated. Our course lay east of north. 
We had the island of Amoy on our right the greater 
part of the distance. For the first few miles, the 
hills wore the same rugged barren aspect which is 
characteristic of the coast of China. Fertility and 
cultivation grew upon us as we advanced. The 
mountains on the Amoy side gradually descended 
until the range was continued by arable hills, cov- 
ered with green fields. In some places the villages 
were very numerous. The want of trees was the 
principal defect in the scenery, although there were 
some most luxuriant exceptions. Numerous well- 
poles were scattered over the cultivated hills, the 
water being used in irrigation. Whole villages 
seemed to turn out to see the strange object as she 
passed ; indeed the hills were frequently darkened 
with spectators. From the tops of the rocks which 
crowned the highest elevations, they were watching 
our movements. Even the women could not re- 
strain their curiosity, but stood gazing at us in little 
groups. Our steamer drew but four and a half feet 
water, and of course could go where no sailing ves- 
sel of any considerable size would have ventured. 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 231 

We proceeded about seventeen miles, when we 
grounded. We then took boats, and went two or 
three miles farther. The tide was so excessively- 
low that the smallest boat could not approach within 
two miles of Tang-Wa. Had we waited, we might 
have gone up to the town in eighteen feet of water. 
On our way back we landed at one of the villages 
where the crowd of spectators was the greatest. 
Some of them recognized me, and were very civil. 

" June 7. — This morning, I had the great gratifi- 
cation of welcoming back to this field, my friend and 
fellow-laborer Mr. Boone, accompanied by his fam- 
ily, Mr. and Mrs. McBryde, and Dr. Cumming. 
After being so long alone, it is a delightful change. 
May the blessing of the Lord rest upon us all." 

"July 10. — Our number somewhat reduced to- 
day. The inhabitants of the western village were 
engaged in gathering the produce of their fields. I 
had before endeavored to prove to them that this 
was not a sufficient reason for absenting themselves, 
but they are not yet alive, either to the law of the 
Sabbath, or to its invaluable privileges. 

" 11. — We have been kept exceedingly busy to- 
day in our different spheres of labor. Several re- 
spectable families were present at our family wor- 
ship. I endeavored to make known to them the 
leading truths of revelation. The applications for 
books have seldom been so numerous, or so pressing. 
Among the patients were fifteen who had been taken 
by pirates, some of whom were shockingly mangled. 
They had been a week in the hands of these cruel 



232 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

men, during all which time their wounds had never 
been dressed. 

"July 23. — To-day I have had a conversation with 
one of the merchants who came to Kolongsoo, on 
the subject of female infanticide. Assuming a coun- 
tenance of as much indifference as I could com- 
mand, I asked him how many of his own children 
he had destroyed. He instantly replied, ' Two/ I 
asked him whether he had spared any. He said, 
' He had saved one.' 1 then inquired how many 
brothers he had. He answered, * Eight/ I asked 
him how many children his eldest brother had de- 
stroyed. He said, ' Five or six.' I inquired of the 
second, third, and all the rest. Some had killed 
four or five — others two or three — others had none 
to destroy. I then asked how many girls were left 
among them all. The answer was, ' Three.' ' And 
how many do you think have been strangled at 
birth ?' ' Probably from twelve to seventeen/ I 
wished to know the standing and employments of 
his brothers. One, he said, had obtained one of the 
literary degrees at the public examinations — a sec- 
ond was a teacher — one was a sailor — and the rest 
were petty merchants like himself. It was not ne- 
cessity then, but a cold, inhuman calculation of the 
gains and losses of keeping the children, which must 
have led to their destruction. It is so seldom that 
we can find a man as candid as this merchant, that 
I am quite incapable of saying whether he and his 
brethren, have or have not exceeded their neighbors 
in this respect. At present I think they have. I 
have asked Mr. Boone's teacher whether any of his 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 233 

children had been deprived of life. He said, no — 
adding that it was a very wicked act. He con- 
fessed, however, that his sister or sister-in-law has, 
with her own hands, destroyed her first three chil- 
dren successively. She was afraid to lay violent 
hands on the fourth, believing it to be one of the 
murdered ones reappearing in a new body. The 
question had arisen in our minds whether mothers 
could ever be brought to participate in the destruc- 
tion of their own offspring. Here was a heart- 
rending reply." 

66 August 31. — This afternoon, we committed 
to the tomb the remains of our much-esteemed 
and deeply-regretted fellow-missionary, Mrs. Boone. 
She departed this life yesterday, about five, p. m. 
She had been delirious through the day, and par- 
tially so for two or three days previous. Before her 
illness became at all alarming, she expressed her ap- 
prehension that it would result in death, and 'set 
her house in order.' She said she had no fear of 
the king of terrors, but felt an unshaken confidence 
in God her Savior. She was deeply impressed with 
the honor which God had conferred upon her, in 
calling her to the missionary work. This she ex- 
pressed in strong language ; and this she acted out 
in all her duties. I have known no one more ener- 
getic, efficient, and uniformly cheerful, than this de- 
voted and beloved sister." 

" September 9. — To-day, a steamer brings us the 
unexpected news of peace between Great Britain 
and China. The treaty quite equals our expecta- 
tions. The opening of so many large cities to com- 



234 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

merce and foreign intercourse — the appointment of 
consuls to whom alone their countrymen are to be 
amenable — the regulation of trade by a fixed and 
published tariff — the liberty, so often and effectually 
resisted, of having ladies accompany their husbands, 
are points gained, which will promote the interests of 
the missionary quite as much as that of the merchant." 

" October 31. — During the last week an event has 
occurred which may have important -bearings. We 
were all invited to visit the Hae-Hong, at present 
the highest mandarin at Amoy. Sedan chairs were 
sent for us, and all went except myself, as I was 
unwell at the time. They were received and en- 
tertained with the greatest courtesy and kindness. 
Their host was so affable and engaging, that the at- 
tendants thought he committed the extreme fault of 
rather slighting the important duties of the table. 
He was informed of our object in coming to China, 
and listened attentively to the most prominent doc- 
trines and duties of our religion. Mr. Boone prom- 
ised to send him our books, which he said he would 
take pleasure in accepting and reading. What an 
advance upon the old system." 

"November 10. — Our intended visit had been so 
far divulged that we could scarcely enter the gate, 
so great was the crowd who were desirous to catch 
a glimpse of a foreign lady. The curiosity of the 
other sex had likewise brought together a large con- 
course. Mrs. McBryde was received by the wife 
of our friend with a freedom and gracefulness of 
manner, which showed that Chinese ladies are not 
ignorant of these external accomplishments. May 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 235 

the cultivation of their minds soon claim the atten- 
tion of their parents and guardians. The first part 
of the day was spent in company with Yew-Ako, 
our host, and his friends who had assembled to see 
us. To my surprise, the former asked me to ad- 
dress the people on the religion of Jesus. He him- 
self professes Mahommedanism. It is the religion 
of his fathers, though he evidently knows but little 
of its peculiar tenets. He agrees with us in de- 
nouncing image-worship. Probably he is not aware 
of the difference between us and the more enlight- 
ened adherents of the false prophet. Mr. McBryde 
and myself, were invited to take Mrs. McBryde to 
view the extensive and highly improved grounds. 
This brought us near the apartments of the women. 
As we approached, they rushed out in a crowd to 
see us. Probably two hundred of all classes and 
ages were there. I learned from Mr. McBryde that 
Yew-Ako had spoken to him about having me ad- 
dress the women. Not knowing the fact, and find- 
ing such a favorable opportunity, I asked the liberty 
of speaking to them, which he readily granted. It 
was difficult to get them silent, and quite as much 
so to keep them from interrupting me. They broke 
out very often, generally repeating what I had said, 
or making remarks upon what they saw. From 
the attention of some of them, especially those more 
advanced in life, I should hope that some of the 
truths lodged in their minds. All restraints were 
so far removed that they spent hours watching us 
wherever we went, and looking at us while dining. 
What a triumph over their old customs and preju- 



236 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

dices, and what a cheering earnest, in the light of 
God's word, of the privileges which Christianity 
shall bring them. 

" November 17. — We are greatly encouraged. 
Our number on the Sabbath was about fifty. Af- 
ter service, Yew-Ako, with about twenty friends, 
came for the same purpose. Mr. Boone, who was 
the Chinese preacher for the day, had a second ser- 
vice for them. Yesterday morning, an old man, 
who mistook the day for the Sabbath, came to our 
usual morning worship. His manner and conver- 
sation had impressed me favorably before. He 
wanted a new supply of books. He said he read 
the books we gave him every night and morning, at 
which times he prayed to the true God. I inquired 
whether he worshipped the idols. He replied, ' None 
of them.' May not the Spirit be leading him to the 
truth?" 

" November 23. — We have just had a visit from 
the Hae-Hong. He came in mandarin style, with 
a large train of attendants. He examined almost 
everything he saw, and was as friendly and free 
from affectation here as in his own house. Such a 
public call, witnessed by so many, and soon to be 
talked of in every quarter, must give us favor in 
the eyes of the people, and remove their fears in res- 
pect to having intercourse with us. He told us that 
the commander-in-chief of the marine forces, who has 
just returned to Amoy, was coming to call upon us. 

" November 24. — We have actually had the honor 
of a call from the Te Tuk, the naval commander-in- 
chief of this province. He is the highest mandarin 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 237 

that resides at Amoy, and wears a button of the first 
rank. We were much struck with the blandness of 
his countenance, and the absence of all airs in his 
manner. We stand astonished at the favor God is 
giving us with this people and their rulers, and hum- 
bly pray that wisdom and zeal may be granted us to 
make the best improvement of the means afforded 
us for the promotion of his glory. 

"November 30. — The governor-general of this 
and the neighboring province arrived a few days 
ago, and sent his card to us. The individual who 
brought it assured us that his excellency had in- 
tended to call upon us, but was prevented by what 
our informant supposed to be the misunderstanding 
of one of Sir Henry Pottinger's interpreters." 

66 December 3. — During the present week we have 
returned the visit of the Te Tuk — the Generalissimo 
of the naval forces of the province ; and called upon 
the Tow-Tae — Intendant of Circuit — the highest 
civil officer of the place. The Tow-Tae sent his 
card with that of the Governor-General. We found 
the officers upon whom we called as affable and as 
kind as possible. To each of them we have pre- 
sented a copy of the New Testament, and other 
books." 

"February 4, 1843. — Every day this week has 
been interesting on account of the number who have 
called, and to whom the character and works of the 
true God have been explained. It is gratifying to 
have those return who have evidently reflected upon 
what they heard and read, and in whose mind there 
is a faint glimmering of light. Some of our visitors 



238 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

sit a long time, and listen attentively to the new and 
strange doctrines. It is to be regretted, however, 
that the Chinese, with the fewest exceptions, never 
contradict you. It is evidently the result of indif- 
ference to religious subjects. They have so few 
connected or consistent ideas in regard to things 
spiritual and eternal, that they act like children when 
you converse with them. Say what you please 
against their superstitions, they are never offended. 
On the contrary, they appear as much delighted with 
the force of the arguments, as if they themselves had 
wielded them in favor of some cherished tenets." 

" March 24. — Days and weeks fraught with cheer- 
ing opportunities for preaching the Gospel, have 
passed since my last entry. During the last week 
an unusual number of intelligent persons have 
seemed readily to comprehend the statements and 
arguments which I generally employ, and to be 
somewhat impressed with their force. They are 
generally struck with the absurdity which I endea- 
vor to point out ; and especially when I descend to 
particulars, and remind them who their most popular 
deities were. One of them — Budh — was not even 
a Chinaman, but a 'black demon,' as they call the 
natives of India : another, Kwan-te-yay, was a mere 
warrior ; a third, Ma-tsoo-po, was a young girl, who 
was not able to prolong her own life beyond the pe- 
riod of youth. They profess to believe that their 
Sinming, or clear-sighted gods, though they were 
men, have been deified for their meritorious works. 
But here I beg leave to question their knowledge of 
these things, reminding them that their most vene- 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 239 

rated sage, Confucius, when questioned about the 
dead, asked ' How can we understand their state V 
Besides, I sometimes inquire, ' How is it possible for 
men who have lived only a few years to become the 
Eternal God, of whom I have spoken/ I tell them, 
according to their own mode of discrimination, — not 
very metaphysical, I acknowledge, but strangely 
powerful with them — that ' men are men, and God is 
God/ 

"April 15. — The newly appointed Hae-Hong, 
(prefect,) called upon us this week, and begged me 
to go with him on ship-board. He is a fine-looking 
man, of courtly manners, and expresses the greatest 
kindness of feeling. If I had never lived in China 
before the new order of things, I should probably 
not be so much struck with the astonishing change 
in the conduct of the mandarins. Their present 
condescension and suavity were quite equalled for- 
merly by their disdainful pride. While returning 
their calls, we proposed visiting our old displaced 
friend. The old Cham-Hoo excused himself from 
seeing us ; he takes his reverses very much to heart. 
The old Hae-Hong received us, but how changed. 
He who appeared in such splendid robes on their 
new year, reminded me now of a peacock with its 
feathers plucked. He received us kindly, but the 
call was a sad one. Poor man ! The people have 
petitioned to have him pardoned, and I hope it may 
succeed. He was formerly known by the name of 
* the flayer,' on account of his exactions, but his re- 
cent kindness has turned the tide of public feeling 
in his favor. 



240 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

" April 24. — Yesterday was a lovely day, and the 
house was crowded with ' hearers of the word/ As 
it is our custom to kneel in prayer, it is interesting 
to see such numbers of idolaters, many for the first 
time, prostrating themselves before Jehovah. May 
the Holy Spirit descend upon some of them, and 
qualify them to become teachers to their country- 
men. I can scarcely conceive how any place can 
furnish greater facilities for spreading, far and wide, 
the truths of Christianity, than this station. There 
is no necessity of leaving the house ; indeed, it is 
scarcely possible to do so. They come in succes- 
sive companies, keeping us busy for several hours 
of almost each day, until we are often quite ex- 
hausted. At this moment they are sitting on each 
side of me, and have been surrounding me so much 
since I began to transcribe this journal, that I have 
had difficulty to proceed. Not wishing to have any 
leave the house untaught, I am frequently obliged 
to lay down my pen, that I may converse with them 
and give them books. After living in China, fet- 
tered and tongue-tied, to enjoy such perfect liberty, 
and so many advantages as we now have, is most 
delightful. Had we but fellow-missionaries enough 
to help us in our work, to open schools, establish 
out-stations in the surrounding country, and carry 
on a vigorous system of operations, what happy re- 
sults might we not effect. 

" But, alas ! how sad the recent news from our 
native land. Few young men coming forward to 
devote themselves to the ministry ; scarcely any to 
offer themselves a living sacrifice on the altar of 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 241 

missions. Fields the most extensive ever opened 
to the Christian church, now inviting the messen- 
gers of Christ to enter ; the prayers of many an- 
swered in the most striking manner; and yet, 
scarcely any giving heed to these clear indications 
of Providence ; very few responding to the Heav- 
enly Call, ' Here am I, send me/ " 

Under date of October, 1843, we have the fol- 
lowing description of an excursion undertaken by 
Mr. Abeel and Mr. Lowrie, to Cheang Chau, the 
capital of the province of that name. 

" Having been greatly favored with wind and 
tide, we reached our destination about two o'clock 
p. m. Its distance from Amoy, is probably be- 
tween thirty and thirty-five miles. Cheang Chau 
stands on the northeast bank of a small river, hav- 
ing a very limited suburb on the opposite side, with 
which it communicates by two stone bridges. Im- 
mediately on our arrival, we landed, entered the city 
by what is called ' the river gate,' and proceeded, 
through several ordinary streets, to what our guide 
said were apartments assigned to mandarins and 
strangers, but which we were afterwards told belong- 
ed to an ordinary inn. For the honor of the country, 
and the comfort of its guests, it is to be hoped that 
it was a mere tavern, and that of the common- 
est description. It consisted of suits of contracted, 
filthy rooms, with a table, a few old chairs, and two 
or three apologies for bedsteads. Travellers, I un- 
derstand, may be accommodated with bed and 
board, if they prefer it ; otherwise, they may take 
furnished apartments and find themselves. 

11 



242 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

"The crowd, which began to collect on our 
reaching the shore, and which followed us through 
the streets, now urged its way into our temporary 
abode. Finding ourselves too much hemmed in 
for comfort, our Chinese companion wrote a request 
to the highest civil officer of the city, begging him 
to send men to keep away intruders. Poor inno- 
cent man ! Knowing our standing with mandarins 
of more exalted rank than any to be found here, he 
felt himself safe in reasoning from the greater to the 
less, and fully concluded that the announcement of 
our arrival, and the expression of our wishes, would 
meet with all due consideration. Soon a military 
officer of the fifth rank, wearing a crystal button 
and a peacock's feather, abruptly entered, and in- 
quired respecting our object in coming, our names, 
the time of our expected return, &c. ; all of which 
he committed to writing. He was soon followed 
by another of greater dignity, and more politeness, 
who satisfied himself with looking at the paper, 
making a few inquiries, and talking on other sub- 
jects. Three others soon arrived in succession, 
and made very much the same inquiries. They as- 
sured us that we were in a common tavern, and 
that they had little or no control over the populace ; 
and begged us to return to our boat, and thence to 
Amoy. To this unreasonable request I made no 
reply ; but merely told them, that if they were not 
satisfied with the place in which we were, I hoped 
they would provide a better one. They said the 
principal magistrate of the city and district would 
soon be with us, and that he might be able to fur- 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 243 

nish us with other apartments. It was not long be- 
fore a tall man, wearing a gold button of the seventh 
rank, entered in great haste ; and, without saluting 
or scarcely noticing us, began to talk with our 
Chinese friends in a loud and hurried strain. As 
his button did not indicate any very appalling dig- 
nity, I waited awhile, and then inquired who the 
animated speaker was. He proved to be the magis- 
trate we were expecting. He descanted on the im- 
propriety of our coming to the city, and the injury 
which was likely to accrue to him for not keeping 
us out. He spoke of the -danger of interrupting the 
peace now happily established, and of the danger 
he apprehended from the gathering crowd. He 
touched on everything which he thought would 
alarm or move us, not even omitting the treaty, in 
direct violation of which, he said, we were acting, 
as he could show us to our conviction. He wound 
up with a practical application, to which he, no 
doubt, thought he had predisposed our minds ; which 
was, that we should leave the place immediately, 
and return to Amoy. I told him briefly our object 
in coming, and attempted to show that the argu- 
ments he had urged were powerless, except in one 
or two instances, where they operated against him- 
self. He had spoken of peace, of the friendly rela- 
tions now existing between the Chinese and foreign- 
ers. I told him this was the very time to visit them, 
and that the way to receive and treat friends was 
not to urge them to depart as soon as they arrived. 
That the treaty specified the opening of certain 
ports for commerce, I admitted ; but not that it pre- 



244 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

vented all strangers from visiting other parts of the 
country. The tone he at first assumed gradually 
gave way as our conversation was prolonged. He 
laid his hand upon his heart, and then upon mine, 
and said we were all brothers. I told of the cus- 
toms of the western world ; how common it was 
for men of different countries to visit each other ; 
and as it regards the crowd, of which he had ex- 
pressed such fears, I had no apprehensions what- 
ever from that quarter ; the multitude was actuated 
by a very innocent curiosity — a curiosity common 
to all countries. 

Finding that we had no disposition to yield to his 
polite proposition to return before we had seen the 
place, and before any good could accrue from the ex- 
cursion, he wished us to accept a large boat, as our 
place of residence while we remained ; assuring us 
that we should then be safe from the pilfering pro- 
pensities of the rabble, and have no annoyance from 
their presence. I suggested to my Chinese com- 
panion that we might possibly find ourselves on our 
way to Amoy in the morning ; which suspicion he 
turned round and expressed aloud, not by my direc- 
tion, though I hope to their edification. The mag- 
istrate again went through the manoeuvre of touching 
hearts, adding that we must repose mutual confidence 
in each other. 

"Having signified our willingness to comply with 
the request of the magistrate, we were escorted to 
a large boat by almost all our official friends. We 
were just preparing to retire, or more strictly, to lie 
down, when an inferior officer entered, and told us 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 245 

that the magistrate had seen the To Tae — the high- 
est civil mandarin — who had urged him to get us 
away immediately, and that he had sent down to beg 
us once more to depart. He w r as reminded of the 
suspicion we had expressed, before we consented to 
take up with such a movable lodging, and of the 
assurance we had received that we should be as 
permanent here as on shore. Laughing at the ad- 
vantage we had gained over his superior, he dropped 
the subject, and said he would be with us early in 
the morning to accompany us in our excursions. 

" I must acknowledge that I was somewhat disap- 
pointed at the strength of opposition manifested to 
our visiting the place. I hoped, without sufficient 
grounds, that there would be no serious objection 
to our dwelling among this ' great people/ My 
mind was soon relieved from a gloomy train of 
thought by the remembrance of the wonderful change 
which had already been effected. I thought of the 
four large and important cities which had been 
thrown open to us, and of the multitudes of towns 
and villages lying in their vicinity. Here are fields 
that will give full employment to all the missionaries 
who are likely to be furnished by the Church of 
Christ for years to come. Let these be occupied, 
and others like them will probably be opened." 

" October, 5. — We had just breakfasted, when one 
of the mandarins whom we had seen the preceding 
evening, came with sedans^ to take us to a temple 
still more celebrated than the one we had just vis- 
ited. We passed through a number of streets, some 
of them rather wider than any I had seen of equal 



246 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

length in other cities of China. They were lined 
as usual with shops, well filled and showy. Having 
reached the northeast angle of the city, we alighted. 
Here on the gentle slope of a hill, stand an array of 
Budhist buildings, with a far-famed hall, dedicated to 
Choo Bun Kong, the most distinguished commentator 
on the classical books of China, and one of the un- 
corrupt magistrates of this city. 

" The grounds are beautifully verdant, and orna- 
mented in part with fine trees. Broad flights of 
steps lead from the gates to an antique temple, 
built very much in the style of the one already visited 
by us, but on a larger scale. Our official companion 
told us it was erected in the Tong dynasty, some- 
where between the seventh and tenth centuries 
of our era. The spacious monastic buildings occu- 
pying each side of the temple, and the area in front, 
are almost entirely deserted of the class by which 
they were originally inhabited. In such a place the 
mind is thrown back to bygone ages, to the succes- 
sive multitudes of deceived beings who came to this 
temple to pay their devotions to these ' dumb idols,' 
and then passed away in their ignorance. 

" In the temple there stand two very old-looking 
book-cases, which they gravely told us must not be 
opened, lest some deadly influence should issue 
forth. They declared, that a man who made this 
rash attempt was destroyed on the spot. The hall 
dedicated to Choo Bun # Kong stands behind this 
large temple ; it contains his image, with a short 
tablet giving his name and place of birth. On each 
side are the representations of a few men distin- 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 247 

guished for literary attainments. The civil manda- 
rins resort here, twice a year, to burn incense and 
invoke the favorable regards of the sage. Literary 
men at some of the examinations write their themes 
in this hall and the ranges of rooms connected with 
it. By them his auspices are also sought for. 

"We ascended a hill immediately behind these 
buildings, which rises probably two hundred feet 
above the level of the surrounding country, and were 
surprised at the magnificent prospect that burst -upon 
us. The city lay reposing beneath us ; the roofs of its 
compact houses were alone visible, interspersed with 
innumerable trees, with here and there a portion of 
the wall and part of a small stream or canal. But 
the city filled only a part of the space within our 
horizon ; we were nearly in the midst of an am- 
phitheatre of hills, inclosing a plain, which could 
scarcely have been less than thirty miles in length 
and twenty in breadth. Towns, villages, and ham- 
lets, were visible in every direction ; those too far 
to be distinguished being indicated by groves or 
clumps of luxuriant trees. These, with the sugar- 
cane and rice fields, intersected by rivers, canals, 
and artificial ponds for irrigation, gave a variety and 
richness to the scene which almost deceived us into 
the forgetfulness of its less distant appearances. 

" I wished to get an estimate of the population 
from an intelligent man who accompanied us ; but 
as is generally the case when this subject is intro- 
duced, he expressed as much wonder at my question 
as if the sum were incalculable. I tried to talk him 
out of his mysticism, when he recollected that at 



248 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

the close of the last dynasty, more than two cen- 
turies ago, the census gave seven or eight hundred 
thousand ; to which he thought a large number had 
been since added. Though the city and suburbs 
are exceedingly compact, they can scarcely contain 
such a population. The space appeared to us too 
limited. What must be the number scattered over 
the whole country which our position commanded. 

" On our return, we entered a number of shops, 
and walked through some of the best-looking streets. 
It is needless to say that we were honored with a 
large concourse of attendants and spectators. Prob- 
ably neither of us ever attracted so much attention 
before. We passed through a street which we saw 
decorated with lamps and hangings the preceding 
evening. This was intended as a peace-offering to 
the gods, by whose visitation, as they believed, they 
had suffered severely from sickness and death. The 
cholera had committed fearful ravages among them, 
at times carrying away four or five hundred a day. 
The crowd which followed us was so large, that 
we made the boatmen pull out and anchor in the 
stream. 

" Our visit was interesting, as bringing to light a 
number of facts. It shows what a change has been 
effected, if not in the disposition, at least in the pol- 
icy of the government toward foreigners. A very 
short time since, and no stranger could have pene- 
trated to Cheang Chau except in disguise. Then, 
instead of condescending to reason with us, brute 
force would have been applied. The least they 
would have done, would have been to convey us un- 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 249 

ceremoniously to a boat, and command the boatmen 
to be off without delay. Now, they not only allow 
us to reason with them, but they yield, at least prac- 
tically, to the force of our arguments. It is highly 
probable that the Emperor, having been compelled 
to throw open certain ports for commerce, has sent 
down his command requiring his officers to prevent 
any intrusion into other places; but to do so by 
means which will not disturb the present peace. 
Hence their firm but not invincible opposition. At 
present it would be very difficult, perhaps impossi- 
ble, to make the larger cities missionary stations. 
Still, I see no reason why they might not be consid- 
ered as outposts, to which we could make frequent 
visits for preaching the Gospel, and scattering the 
good seed in the written page. At the smaller 
places where there are no mandarins, it would be 
less difficult to get a foothold. That the missionary 
might visit villages almost without number, and of 
all sizes, with little or no molestation from govern- 
ment, appears highly probable. As far as our obser- 
vation goes, the country is extensively open to itiner- 
ant labors. We confidently believe that any number 
of enterprising men, having their head-quarters at 
Amoy or Kolongsoo, could find abundant employ- 
ment in this populous region. That there is any 
necessity for having our permanent residence at 
Kolongsoo or Amoy, remains to be seen. We need 
a larger force to make such experiments, and until 
the work prepared to our hands is less neglected, it 
is folly to look out for more. Our prayers have been 
heard — our sanguine hopes exceeded. God has done 

11* 



250 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

great things for China, whereof we are glad. And 
now who is there that will ' come over and help us V 
Who will go up, and in the name of its Sovereign, 
take possession of this goodly land ?" 

Thus, much of Mr. Abeel's time was spent in 
making excursions to different points, in the distri- 
bution of religious works ; and in personal religious 
conversation with the heathen, when he could not 
obtain the opportunity of preaching to numbers the 
Gospel of grace. 

In June, 1844, he had the pleasure of welcoming 
at Amoy, Messrs. Doty and Pohlman as fellow-labor- 
ers in this same field. This was an opportune arri- 
val, displaying the goodness and wisdom of Divine 
Providence. In August, Mr. Abeel was obliged to 
leave Amoy. His health had been sinking rapidly, 
and he sought once more the benefits which he had 
often obtained from a voyage. He sailed to Hong- 
Kong, another missionary station, where he remained 
until September, when he returned to Amoy. His 
symptoms had not been in any way mitigated by 
this change ; and, after laboring at his post for a 
time, he was forced to give up all exertion and leave 
the field entirely. The following is the account of 
his last missionary excursion. It is written under 
date of November 23, 1844. 

" We have just returned from a visit to Quemoy. 
It is the largest and most projecting island which is 
passed in the approach to Amoy. Our kind friend, 
the chief magistrate, assisted us in procuring a suit- 
able boat ; and this to go to a place interdicted by 
treaties ! 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 251 

" We started at nine in the morning, and arrived 
at three in the afternoon. Our vessel could not ap- 
proach within half a mile or more of the dry shore. 
When we arrived, a cloud of human beings were 
gradually moving out with the receding tide. They 
were picking up shell-fish and sea- weed, and what- 
ever else they could turn to the least profit. A large 
proportion were women and girls. We were car- 
ried on men's backs to the shore, and on their 
shoulders, (in sedans,) when we returned. We 
were obliged to walk over a barren tract before 
we reached the chief town, Aou Poi. It proved to 
be by far the largest and most business-like place 
we have visited in the vicinity of Amoy. It has 
diverted the trade from the walled city, which lies 
some three or four miles in the interior, and was 
once the emporium of the island. Though rather 
late, we started for the city ; but after travelling 
about half the distance, (myself being the only one 
in a sedan.) the pedestrian powers of some of our 
party began to fail, and it was concluded to defer the 
visit until we had more time for the examination of 
the island. 

"We were pleased with the gently undulating 
surface of the country. We saw no abrupt black 
hills, no immense granite rocks. The soil is very 
light, and the chief production is the sweet potato ; 
an article far inferior, as cultivated in China, to that 
which is obtained in either of the southern or mid- 
dle states of America. As usual, the eye caught a 
village almost wherever it turned. 

" Such was the dense crowd at a temple where 



252 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

we stopped on our return, that it was impossible to 
make the people listen. We noticed a large admix- 
ture of well-dressed, intelligent-looking persons, who 
requested books, both for themselves, and the man- 
darins in whose offices many of them are probably- 
employed. This place is considered of sufficient im- 
portance to be governed by a mandarin of high rank. 

u One object which we had in view in going to 
Quemoy, was to obtain a correct idea of the salu- 
brity of the island. I had often inquired about it, 
and had been led to believe that it was remarkably 
free from the fevers and other epidemics which are 
common in the neighboring places. The dryness 
of the soil, the absence of extensive paddy grounds, 
and the appearance of the entire face of the coun- 
try, strengthened the impression which I had derived 
from others. There are many excellent situations 
for dwellings, and no doubt many dwellings in such 
situations might be obtained. But should we be 
permitted to live here ? It would doubtless be more 
difficult than to obtain a footing where there are 
no mandarins ; but still, I think, in the course of 
time, it might be effected. It would make a desira- 
ble missionary station, irrespective of its healthful- 
ness. The island is said to be as large as Amoy. 
Whether this be true or not, it must contain a large 
population." 

Mr. Abeel concludes his journal with the following 
reflections : — " I am glad that I was permitted to re- 
turn to Amoy for a short time, if it were only for 
these experiments. True, they do not prove all 
that we wish to know. They do not show, for in- 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 253 

stance, whether missionaries will be allowed to re- 
side permanently in these towns and villages ; but 
they do show that these and similar places are per- 
fectly accessible to us, and that labors, which re- 
quire only transient visits, such as preaching and 
superintending schools, may be performed. And 
labors of this description, I have little doubt, will 
very soon open the way for permanent stations, 
wherever it may be thought desirable to establish 
them. When God's Spirit shall be poured out, and 
native converts and evangelists shall have been 
raised up to our assistance, what ample scope there 
will be for the employment of all their time and en- 
ergies. 

" Never before has the missionary work appear- 
ed so inviting — never have I been placed in such 
agreeable circumstances — never has labor been so 
easy, so animating — never have the prospects been 
so encouraging. I have lived through a part of 
China's long night of exclusiveness, and have seen 
the morning spread itself upon her eastern moun- 
tains. I consider the country now to be sufficiently 
open for all missionary purposes ; and it is a re- 
markable fact, that while the prospects of trade have 
not been realized, and merchants have thus far ac- 
complished but little, missionaries have been quietly 
coming in, and taking possession of the large com- 
mercial cities. The very spot, which those of us 
who were studying the Fukien dialect, always spoke 
of as our most desirable residence, myself and others 
have occupied. This difficult dialect has been ac- 
quired to a useful extent, and its further acquisition 



254 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

has been rendered easy and agreeable. A congre- 
gation has been gathered, which, with care may be 
indefinitely increased ; and an interesting meeting 
for social prayer and catechetical instruction, has 
been well attended for several months. The favor 
of the mandarins and of all classes of the people, has 
been secured \ and the whole surrounding country, 
with its teeming population, is, for a wide circuit at 
least, accessible to us. A band of missionaries has 
lately arrived to strengthen our hands, and greatly 
increase our social privileges and comforts. Our 
literary labors have never been so interesting. A 
part of the Bible has been assigned to our mission 
to translate, and the whole to revise. Great as is 
the trial of leaving the place and the beloved com- 
panions in it, yet I have been spared to see so many 
hopes realized, and the dispensation which calls me 
away has been so mercifully delayed, that I have 
cause only for gratitude. Oh, that many young 
men may be constrained to go forth to this field, 
and assist in giving the Word free course, that it 
may be glorified among the people !" 

He essayed once after this to preach to the Chi- 
nese, but on account of the weakness and irritation 
of his lungs, he was almost forced to relinquish 
the effort. His sermon was founded on the text, 
u Come unto me all ye that labor and are heavy 
laden, and I will give you rest." A fit subject to 
close his career as an ambassador for Christ among 
the poor, benighted, and hopeless heathen. 

We have now followed this servant of Jesus 
through all his labors. His last efforts in the ser- 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 255 

vice of his Master were performed under the pres- 
sure of severe and distressing disease, and yet they 
were carried on with all the energy which he dis- 
played when he first entered upon the duties of his 
missionary life. It only remains for us to trace his 
course as he was compelled to leave this field of his 
exertions, and return to his native land, to die and 
be buried with his fathers. 



CHAPTER XI. 

Worn out by exertions made while the body was 
suffering from the weakness incident to a constantly 
feverish state, Mr. Abeel was again forced to leave 
his post, and seek the home of his fathers, if by the 
good providence of God he might be permitted to 
reach it. As has been seen, he first sought to relieve 
his physical distresses by short sea voyages about the 
coast of China, hoping that he might be so much im- 
proved in health as to preclude the necessity of en- 
tirely discontinuing his labors. But these expedients 
failed ; and he felt that he must hasten, before his 
strength was so far exhausted as to place him be- 
yond the hope of the reviving influence of the sea 
air. In all this trial he possessed his soul in patience. 

His journal says, — "I have been ill and absent, 
spending some weeks at Macao, and some at Hong- 
Kong. My increasingly feeble health has brought 
death and heaven near. I trust I have nothing to 
fear. Simply to the cross I cling. Animating pros- 
pects of my Home. Am still afflicted by trying 
pains, but am praying and striving for patience with 
cheerfulness/' 

By the advice of his friends, he embarked on the 
14th of January, 1845, in the Natchez, Capt. Wa- 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 257 

terman, for the port of New York. So enfeebled 
was he at this time, that the night before his em- 
barkation he feared to give way to the influence of 
sleep, lest his respiratory organs should cease to act. 
After he had been on board a few weeks he was 
greatly relieved ; and he then entertained the hope, 
which, at the commencement of the voyage he 
hardly dared indulge, that he might once more reach 
his native land. When but two weeks of his voyage 
had elapsed, we find this record in his diary. 

"February 2, 1845. How wonderful ! Again on 
the mighty waters bound for America. After re- 
turning to Amoy, under the confident expectation 
that the winter, would revive me, I remained in a 
very weak state. No cold, or very cold weather 
came on. I tried different expedients in vain. A 
low exhausting fever set in ; and as there was no 
prospect of improvement, Heft Amoy, December 19, 
1844, to try the effects of a change either to the 
south of China, Manilla, or America. At Hong- 
Kong and Canton I felt better in unimportant re- 
spects, but became worse in the symptoms which 
were the most serious. On the 14th of January, I 
embarked, doubtful which home I should reach first. 
We have been out nineteen days, and I feel greatly 
relieved. The goodness of the Lord fills me with 
surprise. Every event has been so mercifully or- 
dered." 

He who holds the winds and the waves in His 
hands, sent prosperous gales to waft that vessel 
across the broad ocean. 

The Natchez made one of the shortest trips on 



258 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

record ; and the good providence of God was dis- 
played in restoring this servant of Jesus so quickly 
to the bosom of his friends, and to the comforts and 
care which his weak state demanded. On the 3rd 
day of April he arrived at New York, after an ab- 
sence of six years. He was then so exhausted and 
worn out by disease, that it hardly appeared as though 
he could survive from day to day ; and it was with 
great difficulty that he could converse. 

He came to the home of his fathers, but its chief 
attractions had been removed. His parents had al- 
ready been gathered to the silent tomb ; and the joy 
experienced at meeting with surviving relatives, was 
mingled with sadness. So weak was he, and un- 
able to endure any exertion, that he could not even 
enjoy the privilege of leading in supplication to God ; 
and but once after his return, was his voice heard 
pleading at the family altar, and then his frequent 
pauses and difficult breathing gave evidence, that 
even that privilege must be denied him. 

After remaining in New York for a few weeks, he 
was obliged to leave the place on account of the 
distressing effects of the air upon his lungs. He 
hastened to Philadelphia, where he remained until 
the weather became more pleasant, when he sought 
the pure air above the Highlands of the Hudson 
River. When summer closed, he left the hospitable 
roofs under which he had been so kindly sheltered, 
where every comfort and luxury had been adminis- 
tered to him by friendly hands, and travelled to Bryan 
county, Georgia ; where the kind providence of God 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 259 

had raised up other friends, who delighted to bestow 
their hospitality upon him. 

During all this time his health was exceedingly- 
precarious, and affected by the slightest change. 
He was almost constantly oppressed by a sense of 
physical exhaustion, which could only be tempo- 
rarily relieved. He w&s unwilling to use any an- 
odynes, fearing that they might have the effect of 
benumbing his mental faculties, and thus of destroy- 
ing his ability to perform and enjoy the great duties 
of religion ; consequently he did not find that relief 
which is often obtained from the use of such expe- 
dients, by those who are in the last stages of pul- 
monary disease. 

But though his sufferings were so severe, yet his 
spiritual enjoyment during this time was constantly 
increasing. As the outward man decayed, the in- 
ward man was renewed day by day. Under date 
of March 9th, he writes : — " Bless the Lord, O my 
soul. Health but little improved, but God's pres- 
ence and loving kindness fill me with wonder and 
joy. I see such unchanging goodness in all the 
past, and find such tender love in His present deal- 
ings, that gratitude and praise fill my soul. ' He 
delighteth in mercy ;' and that notwithstanding my 
past sins and present deficiencies. How delightful 
the thoughts of heaven have been. The long days 
and sleepless nights have often been turned into 
seasons of high enjoyment. The Lord has aroused 
my mind to the necessity of cultivating Christ-like 
forbearance, kindness, meekness, and universal love. 
This can be done only by watching the unceasing 



260 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

operations of the mind, and endeavoring to correct 
every wrong thought and improper course, in the 
scenes which the imagination is ever presenting." 

On the 1st of January, 1846, (the year of his 
death,) he made the following entry. He was then 
in Georgia, and had repeated evidences of approach- 
ing dissolution. It is the bfeathing of a soul ripe 
for heaven. 

" I have probably enjoyed more of the Divine 
presence and favor the last year, than in any pre- 
ceding one. Very ill, much of the time expecting 
to die. Blessed be God, I have no fear of death. 
This has come through confidence in the power and 
faithfulness of my Redeemer. Floods of light seem 
sometimes to have poured into my soul. God has 
made His goodness to pass before me. He has dis- 
closed to me the love and tenderness of his past 
dealings with me — how He led me out to the hea- 
then — sustained me all the way — and brought me 
back to die among the dearest friends, and in the 
most ameliorating circumstances. All, all is of 
grace, and my heart often swells with gratitude. 
Oh, who has ever been more tenderly and delicately 
provided for in all things. I have eternal life in 
bright and animating prospect, through Jesus Christ 
my all — and besides, I have ' The world and things 
present and things to come.' Oh, for more resem- 
blance to Jesus. With so little, I wonder at such 
manifestations of love." 

In the spring of 1846, he journeyed slowly from 
Georgia to the north. He again found it impossible 
to remain in the city of New York, as he was im- 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 261 

mediately seized with a most acute and distressing 
bronchial affection, from which he could obtain no 
relief until he breathed the pure air above the High- 
lands. He continued at Albany until June, when 
he started for Rhode Island by the way of New 
York. On his way down the North River, he 
gratified a desire whigh he had often expressed 
since his return, of visiting the village of Athens, 
the place of his first settlement as a preacher of the 
Gospel. Twenty years had rolled by, since he had 
been permitted to preach there the unsearchable 
riches of Christ. The scene which ensued when 
he reached that place, was solemnly affecting. The 
fathers of the church had already gone to their rest ; 
but numbers were left, who hastened to greet him, 
and behold his face once more in the flesh. And as 
his spiritual children gathered around him, and be- 
held his weakness and suffering, and recalled those 
scenes of interest through w T hich they passed when 
he broke to them the bread of life, their hearts were 
overcome by deep feeling, and even the eye of man- 
hood was dimmed by the tear of sorrow. 

This interview was so painfully interesting and 
exciting, that it seemed almost too much for him to 
bear ; and after exerting himself greatly to adminis- 
ter advice and consolation to these weeping friends, 
he was forced to bid them farewell, and hasten away 
from the trying scene. 

He then visited Rhode Island ; and in four weeks 
returned to the State of New York, and travelled as 
far west as Geneva, to visit there a relative, the 
Rev. Gustavus Abeel, D.D. Now, he was nearly 



262 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

at the end of the journey of life, and his physical 
sufferings became almost insupportable. Yet he 
endured as seeing Him who is invisible. The 
greater part of his time was spent in devotional ex- 
ercises. Unable to maintain a sitting posture, he 
would lounge on the sofa, or lie on the bed with his 
open Bible at his side ; and spend hours in contem- 
plating its truths, and committing it to memory. 
He also delighted greatly in repeating hymns, with 
which his mind was richly stored. He was but lit- 
tle affected by worldly considerations, and his hopes 
were growing brighter day by day. It might truly 
be said of him, if it could be applied to any of his 
generation, that he " walked with God ;" and the 
whole tenor of his conversation, savored of deep 
spirituality, and weanedness from the world. 

He returned from Geneva to Albany, but it was 
the will of God that he should proceed no farther. 
He had remained in Albany but a few days, when 
most unfavorable symptoms appeared which termi- 
nated in his speedy dissolution. From their first ap- 
pearance he sunk rapidly. This decline was more 
obvious to others than himself. His mind was fully 
prepared for his departure. For months previous, 
and in fact, from the time of his return, he always 
spoke of death as an event which might occur at 
any time ; and when his attached friends — who could 
hardly enter into his feelings, and feared that a con- 
stant contemplation of the great change might af- 
fect his remaining strength — chided him for speaking 
of it with such familiarity, his countenance would 
light up with a smile of holy confidence ; and he 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 263 

would assure them, that he had meditated on the 
subject so long, and realized the blessedness con- 
nected with the change so fully, that he was no 
more disturbed by referring to it, than by mention- 
ing any circumstance that might occur in his life. 
This was also manifest from the fact, that he made 
every minute arrangement in reference to the dis- 
position of his affairs with perfect composure ; and 
directed where his body should be laid to rest, when 
his spirit was released from the earthly tabernacle. 
Still, it may be said in one sense, that death came 
upon him suddenly, and in a measure unexpectedly. 
He had before rallied under like symptoms : and he 
was under the impression, when they first appeared, 
that he had sufficient physical stamina to resist their 
power. But he soon saw that nature could not en- 
dure the shock, and that the last struggle had ar- 
rived. And physically speaking, it was a struggle ; 
for his frame had not lost all its energy, and it re- 
sisted the inroads of the great destroyer. Nervous 
relaxation and the intense heat of the weather com- 
bined to render his sufferings most acute. So great 
was his agony, that he would permit no one to be 
present in his room but the physician, who watched 
over him with the greatest solicitude. Through the 
grace of God, he was able to maintain his patience 
and composure, when he found that death was at 
hand. He used his remaining strength in commu- 
nion with God, and a calm contemplation of his ap- 
proaching end. There was no sound heard in that 
chamber of death ; for the sufferer chose rather to 
collect all his energies and employ them in viewing 



264 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

eternal realities. There was no shout of triumph 
heard ; for the sting of death had long since passed 
away. As the prophet of old awaited in silence the 
still small voice, so now he remained calm, resigned 
and silent, awaiting the call of his Master. It was 
not the silence of fear, but of composure, and deep 
peace which flowed like a river in his soul. 

His last wish, was to be left undisturbed : and in 
the stillness of that chamber he communed with his 
Master, till the summons came, and he saw him 
face to face. Before his death his pains and suffer- 
ings ceased ; and he lay as if in a gentle slumber, 
when he died. No groan or sigh was heard. He 
fell asleep in Jesus. Then was fulfilled that lofty 
desire, expressed in his journal : — the last record — 
written, as if with painful difficulty — which is the 
full expression of his hopes and feelings. It was 
written but fourteen days before his death. 

" August 20, 1846. — Wonderfully preserved ! 
With a kind and degree of disease which generally 
has a speedy issue, I live on. All things are mine. 
God sustains me through wearisome days, and te- 
dious, painful nights. Simple faitflr in his word 
keeps my mind in peace, but he generously adds 
strong consolation. When I embarked for home, 
the latter part of the 5th chapter of Hebrews was 
blessed to the production of the assurance of hope, 
or something akin to it I have not lost it. Death 
has no sting. Oh, may the Conqueror continue with 
me till the close, and then ! ! !" 

This is the closing sentence of the diary. The 
pen could write no more, but in a few days the faith- 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 265 

ful disciple was permitted to realize the object of his 
desires. 

He died on the 4th of September, 1846, aged 
forty-two years. The Rev. Dr. WyckofF of Albany, 
pronounced the funeral discourse, and his body was 
conveyed for interment to Greenwood Cemetery, 
near the city of New York. A monument erected 
by Christian friends now marks the place where re- 
pose the remains of David Abeel, the first Foreign 
Missionary ever sent by his own denomination, to 
preach the Gospel to the heathen. 



12 



CHAPTER XII. 

We have now finished the pleasant labor of trac- 
ing the personal history of David Abeel. And as a 
fitting conclusion to this work, we propose to draw 
a brief sketch of his character. The narrative of 
his life distinctly develops its chief traits. But 
there are some points, which, on account of the 
form that the work has assumed, have not been no- 
ticed in the preceding pages, and yet must be intro- 
duced to render the description faithful and com- 
plete. 

As yet, nothing has been mentioned in regard to 
the intellectual character and attainments of 
David Abeel, although the reader must have formed 
some conclusion on this point, as he has perused the 
different extracts from his journals and diary. It 
should be remembered, however, that the diary was 
written only for personal use. 

He was not a man of remarkable power of intel- 
lect, or of peculiar genius ; if he had been, perhaps 
he would not have engaged so successfully in the 
severe intellectual drudgery connected with the 
study of a difficult language. 

But while there was no peculiar brilliancy in his 
mental formation, it was characterized by solidity 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 267 

and strength. He was emphatically a man of sound 
mind, in the true acceptation of the term. He was 
a clear and close thinker; — he could appreciate 
nice distinctions of thought, and always expressed 
himself with discrimination and force. 

This strength of mind, which God had given him, 
was the foundation on which he built the intellec- 
tual superstructure carefully and assiduously. From 
the time of life when he first felt deeply the neces- 
sity of cultivating his mental powers, he had been 
under the influence of religious principle ; and was 
impressed with one great desire — one object of am- 
bition — the improvement of his talents to their ut- 
most extent, that he might use all for the glory of 
God. He did not spare himself in any way to at- 
tain that object. He was an indefatigable student. 
We must, as a matter of course, make much allow- 
ance for the disadvantages he experienced in literary 
pursuits, arising from his feeble health ; but this fact 
only serves to show us what energy he displayed in 
cultivating his intellect, and acquiring the knowl- 
edge which he possessed, not only on theological 
subjects, but also on all points of general literature. 

He was critically acquainted with several differ- 
ent languages. He was a thorough master of his 
mother tongue, which he used in conversation and 
extemporaneous speaking with peculiar beauty and 
force. His study of the Chinese language, doubt- 
less led him to accurate habits of scholarship, and 
to an intimate acquaintance, especially with the an- 
cient languages, that he might be prepared for the 
work of faithfully translating the Word of God. 



268 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

It would be difficult for us to ascertain the extent 
of his knowledge of the Chinese. That he was en- 
dowed with peculiar natural capabilities for its ac- 
quisition, we are well aware. His ear for musical 
sound was correct and delicate, and he was thus 
fitted for observing and using correctly the different 
intonations, on which the meaning of words in that 
language chiefly depends. He often made the re- 
mark, that it was almost useless for any one to at- 
tempt the study of the Chinese who had not a criti- 
cal ear in distinguishing sound. His acquisitions 
were restricted to one dialect of this peculiar lan- 
guage. To say that he had an accurate knowledge 
of it, would be declaring too much ; for such an ac- 
quaintance would have required more years of study 
than he could have bestowed, had he always pos- 
sessed good health. He was also acquainted with 
the Siamese and Malay languages. 

As a preacher, his discourses were clear and for- 
cible. He was not given to abstract discussions of 
truth, but was rather plain and practical. His ser- 
mons were commonly prepared with great care. It 
was his custom to choose his subject the first day of 
the week, and meditate on it, feeding his own soul 
with it, and drinking in the spirit of its teachings, 
before he presented it to the people ; — and thus 
be brought " beaten oil," into the sanctuary. He 
preached on the Sabbath during the greater part of 
his missionary life — on two different occasions offi- 
ciating as chaplain at Singapore — at Canton, for the 
foreign residents in connection with the other mis- 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 269 

sionary brethren — and at Kolongsoo, as chaplain for 
the British army. In the appendix to this work will 
be found a sermon, which is inserted as a speci- 
men of the depth of practical piety which charac- 
terized his discourses. His manner in the pulpil 
was unaffected, and at the same time winning and 
impressive ; and the musical and pleasing intona- 
tions of his voice added force to his language. 

As an author, Mr. Abeel contributed to the cause 
of missions by writing a description of his residence 
in China and the adjacent countries during his first 
visit to the East ; and by publishing a work advo- 
cating the importance of the great object to which 
he had devoted his life, entitled " The Claims of the 
World to the Gospel." The former work was pub- 
lished soon after his return from China in 1835: the 
latter shortly previous to his departure for Canton 
in 1839. "His ' Residence in China' discovers a 
quick apprehension, and a just perception of the 
beautiful and the repulsive, in nature and in morals. 
His 'Discussion on Missions' bespeaks close discrim- 
ination, accurate representation, with candid and 
powerful argumentation. "* 

Mr. A's strength of mind exhibited itself in con- 
l^ection with his missionary labors, in his prudence 
and energy, and the correctness of his judgment. 
He rose above the contracting influence of preju- 
dice, and always embraced expanded views of duty. 
He was very discriminating in his plans, and was 
rarely if ever mistaken in his course. 

* Funeral Discourse of Mr. Abeel, by Isaac N. Wyckoff, D.D. 



270 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

Such was the intellectual character of David 
Abeel, exactly fitting him for usefulness as a mis- 
sionary of the cross : — enabling him to engage and 
interest by the power of his preaching — and to com- 
mand the respect of all men by the strength of his 
mind, and the prudence of his course. 

Let us now examine his religious character. 
In this we are more deeply interested ; for we can 
meet daily many who have made the highest attain- 
ments in science and literature, and who possess 
great strength of mind ; but there are few who give 
as much diligence to keeping their hearts, as to the 
cultivation of their intellects — who value spiritual 
truths as fully as they do the truths of natural sci- 
ence. 

It would be folly to say that these pursuits are 
incompatible ; for some of the most ardent students 
of the natural sciences and of general literature, 
have manifested the same eagerness in their search 
for spiritual knowledge ; and have been humble 
learners at the feet of Jesus — the Great Teacher. 
But the majority of intellectual men are so dazzled 
by the splendor of worldly wisdom, and fascinated 
by its pursuits, as to neglect that heavenly wisdom 
" which cometh down from above/' Hence it is 
more pleasant to turn from these traits, in which 
David Abeel has been often equalled, and even ex- 
celled ; and to view him in a higher and holier light 
— as the child of God, who consecrated himself en- 
tirely to his Master, and sought chiefly intimate ac- 
quaintance with divine things. 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 271 

It may be truly said that few attain the heights 
of piety which he reached. 

In looking at the characteristics of that piety as 
displayed in his views of spiritual subjects, and de- 
veloped in his life, we are led to notice particularly : 

HIS EXALTED CONCEPTIONS OF THE NATURE AND 

EXTENT OF THE WORK OF SANCTIFICATION IN THE 
SOUL. 

It is doubtless true, that the great deficiencies in 
the extent of piety and self-consecration of profes- 
sors of religion, can be traced to their incorrect 
ideas of the work of personal sanctification. Many 
are so careless and worldly-minded, that they do not 
make this a subject of meditation, and inquiry, and 
prayer ; while others learn to cherish low and con- 
tracted ideas in regard to it. They " compare them- 
selves with themselves," taking as their standard 
some creature as fallible as themselves, though per- 
haps more holy ; and consequently are satisfied with 
limited attainments in personal piety. 

David Abeel acknowledged as his only rule in the 
pursuit of holiness, the one laid down and enforced 
in God's word — " Be ye holy even as I am holy :" — 
"Be ye perfect as your Father in heaven is perfect." 
In other words, he knew of no other bounds to his 
desires and prayers than the perfection and holiness 
of God. This was a point on which he would often 
expatiate in his conversation with Christians. If he 
referred to the example of men, it was to show how 
far they had advanced in their pursuit after this 
great object. He frequently spoke of the Apostle 
Paul as an example of great attainments in piety, 



272 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

and declared as his belief, " that these were made 
under the same difficulties which all Christians have 
encountered — that although, an inspired apostle, he 
had no special assistance in this work, farther than 
is vouchsafed to every seeking child of God, and that 
any Christian who made a right use of his privi- 
leges, might attain the same heights of sanctifica- 
tion through the grace of the Spirit;" and yet he did 
not point others to Paul as having reached the high- 
est degree of sanctification, nor did he place his 
character before his own soul in this view: he looked 
beyond, to the great example — the perfectly holy 
Savior. His spirit and desires resembled those of 
the same apostle as expressed in the third chapter 
of Philippians, — " Pressing toward the mark, for the 
prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus." 

Acting in accordance with the promptings of this 
one great desire, he was led to use with peculiar 
diligence the different means of grace, appointed by 
the goodness of God for the increase of His likeness 
and spirit in the hearts of His children. While he 
loved the house of God, he placed a far greater value 
on the private than the public duties of religion. A 
portion of each day was spent in secret communion 
with God. He counted his seasons of private de- 
votion, not by minutes, but hours ; and frequently 
whole days would be spent in prayer and fasting, 
although his health often forbade the recurrence of 
the latter seasons. Wherever he went it was soon 
obseved that a man of God was there. Much of 
his time was spent in his own apartment, and when 
he came out after his seasons of retirement, and 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 273 

rejoined the circle, his spiritual conversation told of 
the happiness which he had enjoyed. 

He was an ardent student of the Bible — feeling 
the force of the prayer which Jesus offered for his 
disciples: "Sanctify them through thy truth, thy 
word is truth." He studied it on his knees, with a 
teachable spirit. For days he would pore over some 
precious passage or chapter, until his soul was filled 
with its spirit. He would often peruse it in many 
different languages, that, to use his own expression, 
he might perhaps find some beauty or striking 
thought brought to view in one translation or ver- 
sion which was not in another. His Greek Testa- 
ment and French Psalter were always near him. 
His views of divine truth were deeply spiritual. It 
was delightful to hear him expatiate on passages of 
Holy writ, for he seemed almost to catch the in- 
spiration of the writer. When he returned from 
China, he formed a Bible class in the family ; and 
the savor of his instructions yet remains in the 
minds of those who were permitted to enjoy his ex- 
planations of the sacred volume. 

Wherever he went, the Bible was his companion ; 
and as often as opportunity offered in his journey- 
ings, he would refresh and strengthen his soul by 
its perusal, and thus preserve himself from the power 
of worldly influence. In his hours of sickness, it 
was his delight to comment on different portions of 
the word, while some person would read it to him 
slowly. And after his strength failed, the study of 
the Bible was the chief source of his consolation. 

12* 



274 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

He was a man of prayer. — He strove always 
to possess the spirit encouraged in that direction. 
"Pray without ceasing." Prayer was the chief 
element of his spiritual enjoyment — the air which 
he loved to breathe. When in the Theological Semi- 
nary, he found a secluded place in the woods near 
the residence of his parents ; and there he formed 
a bower, to which he retired for meditation and 
prayer, where he might be undisturbed by any 
intrusion. Daily he repaired to that little Bethel, 
and in the silence of nature's sanctuary worshipped 
his God. In that place, in answer to prayer, he first 
became impressed with the claims of the heathen, 
and received light in regard to his duty towards 
them. In all his course, he drew his spiritual 
strength directly from God, and owed his attain- 
ments in piety to his habit of secret prayer. It may 
truly be said of him, as it was of one whose char- 
acter he delighted to study, the heavenly-minded 
Fletcher — " His closet was his favorite retirement, 
to which he constantly retreated whenever his du- 
ties allowed a season of leisure. Here he was pri- 
vately hidden, as in the presence of God ; here he 
would plunge himself into the depths of humiliation ; 
and from hence, as from another Pisgah, he would 
take a large survey of the vast inheritance which is 
reserved for the saints. Here he would ratify his 
solemn engagements to God; and here, like the 
good King Hezekiah, he would spread the various 
circumstances of the people at the feet of their com- 
mon Lord. In all cases of difficulty he would re- 
tire to this consecrated place to ask counsel of the 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 275 

Host High ; and here in times of uncommon dis- 
tress, he has continued during whole nights in prayer 
to God." 

Connected with his study of God's word, and de- 
light in secret prayer, we must not forget his re- 
markable habits of meditation. He did not, like 
some, spend his time in this duty to the neglect of 
active labor in the service of his Master. All his 
meditations were of such a character that they led 
to greater diligence in that service ; and he had ac- 
quired the habit of pursuing them while engaged 
in other duties, and journeying from place to place. 
It was in this way that he obtained such rich and 
deeply spiritual views of divine truth. Thus, for 
instance, he records in his diary the delight which 
he experienced for weeks, in contemplating the 
ideas suggested by the passage which forms the 
text of the sermon appended to this memoir. 

" I am dwelling on ' And so shall we be ever with 
the Lord.' The theme is refreshing, enrapturing. 
I know not how near I am to death. Blessed be 
God, there is no bitterness in the thought of a speedy 
departure. ' I shall be satisfied when I awake (as I 
literally may) with thy likeness.' " 

" The theme of last week is still in contempla- 
tion ; and as I am in no haste to finish it, I hope it 
may furnish animation for weeks to come." 

His diary contains frequent notices of this kind. 
He derived many subjects for meditation from the 
different hymns with which his mind was stored. 
He was exceedingly fond of poetry of every kind, 
but his chief enjoyment was found in such as tended 



276 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

to sanctify the heart. It was his delight when the 
hour of twilight approached, to sit with the family 
and converse on eternal things, and illustrate his 
spiritual emotions in the language of expressive 
hymns, on which he had so long reflected, and whose 
sentiments he felt so deeply, that they seemed as the 
very breathings of his soul. In repeating a hymn, 
he would impress its beauties and holy thoughts upon 
the mind in a way which could never be forgotten. 
" I shall always remember," remarked a friend, " the 
impression made upon my mind by Mr. Abeel's 
manner of repeating sacred poetry — I can hear him 
now, as I once heard him quoting that beautiful 
hymn, ' Ye angels who stand round the throne' — 
and when he lifted up his eyes to heaven, and his 
voice expressed the desire of his soul as he uttered 
that line, * I long, Oh I long to be there/ it seemed 
as if he was ready to rise from earth and enter into 
the enjoyment of his Father's house above." 

Heaven was the great subject of his meditation, 
and many of the hymns in which he delighted were 
descriptive of its holiness and enjoyments. After 
his last return from the East, he became acquainted 
with that beautiful hymn, " I am weary of straying, 
Oh fain would I rest." For weeks, he lingered in 
delight over its touching sentiments, so applicable 
to his own case — and often, as he became excited 
and interested in conversing on his favorite theme 
of the saint's rest, he would utter its language as the 
thought and feeling of his soul. The writer has 
heard him repeat it, when he had scarcely sufficient 
strength to undergo the physical exertion of speak- 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 277 

ing ; and yet his languid eye would light up with in- 
terest and unwonted brilliancy ; and as he would 
pause and rest between each line, it seemed as though 
the Christian pilgrim felt his weariness — while at the 
same time the earnest tones of his voice told how in- 
tense were his desires, if it was the will of Provi- 
dence, to be " near and like his God," and " rest in 
His presence above." 

" I am weary of straying — O fain would I rest 
In that far distant land of the pure and the blest, 
Where sin shall no longer its blandishments spread, 
And tears and temptations forever are fled. 

I am weary of hoping — where hope is untrue, 
As fair, but as fading, as morning's bright dew ; 
I long for that land, whose blest promise alone, 
Is changeless and sure, as Eternity's throne. 

I am weary of Joving what passes away — 
The sweetest, the dearest, alas ! may not stay ; 
I long for that land, where these partings are o'er, 
And death and the tomb can divide hearts no more. 

I am weary of sighing o'er sorrows of earth, 
O'er joy's glowing visions, that fade at their birth ; 
O'er the pangs of the loved, which we cannot assuage, 
O'er the blightings of youth and the weakness of age. 

I am weary, my Savior, of grieving thy love — 

when shall I rest in thy presence above — 

1 am weary, but Q ! let me never repine 

While thy word, and thy love, and thy presence are mine." 

The use of these means of grace was the secret 
of Mr. Abeel's success in holy attainments. He 
constantly sought to be more and more like Jesus ; 
and it seemed to others, though not to himself, that, 



278 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

in many respects, he did possess the spirit of the 
Savior. 

Yet in all his attainments he was very humble, 
and this humility was the crowning beauty of his 
spiritual character. He was placed in circumstances 
of peculiar temptation, from the very fact that his 
piety was acknowledged, and secured for him a high 
position, and the respect of men. He was in dan- 
ger of spiritual pride, and yet he only valued his 
growth in grace, as God enabled him to exercise the 
feeling and humility of the child. He was a lowly- 
minded Christian, ever desirous of receiving spirit- 
ual instruction from all, especially from those who 
were the poor of earth, but rich in grace and relig- 
ious experience, and who " w r alked with God." 

It must not be thought that Mr. Abeel possessed 
any natural advantages, leading to a peculiarly rapid 
growth of grace in his soul. His attainments were 
made in opposition to a heart whose every thought 
was evil. His diary tells us of a great spiritual con- 
flict, carried on with ardor from the time when he 
first espoused the cause of Christ, until he received 
the " crown of glory." There was no cessation in 
this warfare. It was a continual strife — fightings 
without and fears within — now resisting natural de- 
pravity, or crying for relief from the power of evil 
propensities — now conquering, and anon almost 
fainting in the contest — still going onward and 
upward, though the body of sin dragged like a heavy 
load, and forced him to cry out in the bitterness of 
his soul, "O wretched man that I am, who shall 
deliver me ?" Every victory was gained after a 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 279 

hard contest ; and his songs of gratitude to God tell 
us how deeply he felt His goodness, when permitted 
to conquer through grace. 

The only possible advantage which he could have 
possessed over others, might perhaps be found in the 
feeble state of his health, which tended to impress 
on his mind the shortness of life, and the necessity 
of full consecration in the service of God, and con- 
stant preparation for death. And yet this physical 
weakness must have given greater strength to the 
evil propensities within him, while it lessened his 
power of resistance. Yet he was assisted to over- 
come all, and to say from a full heart, in grateful 
acknowledgment of Divine assistance, "By the 
grace of God, I am what I am." 

In order to complete this sketch of the character 
of David Abeel, it only remains to notice his ex- 
alted views of the Christian's duties and res- 
ponsibilities. This will develop his public life and 
labors, as the consideration of his views of the work 
of sanctification displayed his private life. Thus 
we will see that he recognized the claims of duty 
in regard to the eternal welfare of others, as well as 
in reference to the cultivation of his own spirit. 

Mr. A. was a firm believer in the declaration of 
the apostle, and the reasoning founded on it : " For 
ye are bought with a price, therefore glorify God in 
your body and in your spirit which are God's." He 
conceived that there should be a yielding up of every 
energy to the service of God, to be used in promot- 
ing the spiritual well-being of others. It will assist 
much in forming right conceptions of his character, 



280 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

if we understand how fully he realized this idea of 
complete self-consecration to the service of the 
Master — how he connected it with every view of 
duty, and graduated all his conduct by it. It not 
only affected his course in his active labors in the 
service of God, but it also controlled him in every 
respect, leading him to adopt such plans and mani- 
fest such dispositions, through grace assisting, as 
would tend most to "glorify God" in that sense 
in which the Apostle Paul uses the term ; or, at least, 
would preserve from injury the cause of religion, 
which he so dearly loved. 

It exerted this influence by producing and pro- 
moting a peculiar care in his walk and conversation, 
that his life might operate in favor of religion. 

Perhaps this point, and the ideas connected with 
it, in this sketch, may seem to many to be of too lit- 
tle importance to notice. But any one acquainted 
with human nature, knows full well that the weight 
and authority of personal influence are founded on 
example rather than precept ; and, that especially in 
regard to matters of religion, men may promulge 
doctrine most successfully, if the life attests to its 
truth and beneficial effects, when they might speak in 
vain, if there was no example to show the sincerity 
of the speaker, and witness to the constraining influ- 
ence of the truths which he delivers. And it has 
already been noticed, that the success of the labors 
of Mr. Abeel could be traced to the consistency 
and moral beauty of his character as sanctified by 
grace. Hence we conceive that this point is of 
importance, and should be developed. 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 281 

He cultivated a meek temper of mind, like that of 
Christ his great example, and held expansive and cath- 
olic views in reference to the great duty of Christian 
charity. He abhorred everything that savored of 
fault-finding, or resentment, or angry and narrow- 
minded feeling. Although he was naturally of an 
ardent temperament, as ardent as he was brave and 
manly ; yet, by the assistance of Divine grace, he 
subdued the former feelings, while he retained the 
latter. The spirit of God ennobled and strengthened 
the commanding points of his character, while it 
corrected and restrained the dispositions founded on 
selfishness and other false principles. He was a 
meek Christian. He was the victim of a disease, 
which in all its stages produced great nervous irrita- 
bility, and rendered it the more difficult to preserve 
an even disposition — yet he was not given to the 
exercise of angry and impatient feelings. He in- 
sisted greatly, in his preaching and conversation, on 
the cultivation of those expanded views of benevo- 
lence which are the best safeguards against the in- 
dulgence of anger. He looked at all persons in a 
charitable light, and always desired to find some 
good trait in the character even of the most aban- 
doned. He never would mention aught to the det- 
riment of any one, and protested against the exercise 
or possession of such feelings by any follower of the 
meek and forgiving Savior. And when, in his inter- 
course with others, he felt the risings of any of these 
unholy and selfish principles of his heart, which, if 
indulged, would have led him to speak evil of others, 
he would check them, and go his closet and weep 



282 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

over his wickedness, and seek for grace to be freed 
from feelings so opposed to the true spirit of the 
Gospel. He often records in his diary, that these 
thoughts of evil, never expressed, have caused sea- 
sons of penitence and deep contrition, when he 
could not rest until he had obtained pardon from 
God. 

We can trace, as the effect of this training, the 
truly Catholic spirit of Mr. Abeel. Though he was 
attached to his own church, yet he hardly recog- 
nized the dividing lines of denominations. He was 
a friend of all of every name who loved Jesus. He 
labored for all, and prayed for all. He expressed 
deep sorrow whenever he beheld the operation of 
sectarian feelings. His work led him to feel the 
wants of the world, and the necessity of united 
prayer and action to secure its evangelization ; and 
he wept over the divisions and disputes between 
denominations, because professing Christians thus 
wasted precious time, and perverted their talents, 
while thousands and millions were passing into 
eternity, and none came to help or save them. To 
this charitable and catholic spirit we may ascribe 
his influence among all denominations. 

The exalted views of duty entertained by Mr. 
Abeel, also led him to exercise the greatest care in 
pursuing a strictly conscientious course of conduct. 
He was scrupulously exact in all his affairs, and all 
his declarations. Having cultivated the nice dis- 
tinctions suggested by a sanctified conscience, he 
was always able to solve questions of duty for oth- 
ers in such a way, that their subsequent course 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 283 

would testify to the correctness of his decision. 
He never made, unguardedly, any statement, al- 
though of the smallest importance. Trifling affairs 
in business were always transacted with as scrupu- 
lous a regard to the rights of others as if they were 
of the greatest magnitude ; for, he conceived that 
the principles of right could be violated as fully in 
the former as in the latter case. He often declared 
the paramount necessity of strictly conscientious 
conduct, not only as testifying to the correctness of 
religious feeling, but also as giving consistency and 
influence to the Christian character. 

These views also led Mr. Abeel to the exercise 
of refinement of feeling and manner, in his inter- 
tercourse with all. He was not only a gentleman 
by birth and education, but by principle. He often 
referred to the courtly manners, and refined senti- 
ment, and polished language of the Apostle Paul, as 
giving a charm to his character and adorning his 
office. To this, he owed much of his influence as 
a missionary. Wherever he went he was greeted 
by the most refined, and received into circles whose 
powerful influence he enlisted in behalf of the work 
of his Master. During his residence in Canton and 
the East, he possessed the confidence of all classes. 
It was lately remarked to the writer by a gentle- 
man who was for many years a merchant, resident 
in Canton, " that no person, not possessing offi- 
cial rank, ever obtained such unbounded influence 
among the foreign residents in that place, as Mr. 
Abeel." This was the result of his bearing as the 
true Christian gentleman — and the circle of his 



284 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

friends in Europe, Asia and the United States, who 
mourn his loss, numbers among it many of that 
class who seldom are interested either in the person 
or labors of the humble missionary, whose friend- 
ship he had won by his urbanity, and whose hearts 
had been benefited by his devout life and holy con- 
versation. 

Yet there was neither cant in his religion, nor 
false refinement in his manner ; nor did his careful- 
ness in these different respects arise from any feel- 
ing but that of earnest desire, in the strength of God, 
to fulfil his whole duty as one who was " bought with 
a price." 

To this carefulness and conscientiouness, he owed 
his success in elevating the standard of personal piety 
among those with whom he associated, and in being 
the instrument of saving so many precious souls. 

We may affirm with all truth, that Mr. Abeel ac- 
complished more spiritual good in .his private inter- 
course with men, and by the power of his holy life, 
than as a preacher. The fruits of his ministry are 
unseen of men. They were gathered as he went 
from place to place in his missionary labors, or 
when seeking for a renewal of his physical strength. 
They were gathered from different families, where 
in the providence of God he tarried from time to 
time. Cases are known where whole households 
have been won to the service of his Master through 
the instrumentality of his holy life and conversation. 
Often a passage of Scripture, or a prayer, or a part- 
ing word would be the appointed means of bringing 
light and peace to some precious soul. All felt that 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 285 

it was a privilege to receive him and tender to him 
every hospitality, for he always left a blessing be- 
hind, in his prayers, and the savor of his heavenly 
conversation. 

A notice of the public labors of Mr. Abeel will 
conclude this sketch. In regard to these also, he 
realized the duty of the Christian to give himself 
wholly to them. He was a zealous laborer in the 
vineyard of the Lord ; he literally spent his strength 
in the cause of Christ, and was remarkably charac- 
terized by fidelity and prudence. 

He was unwavering in the performance of duty. 
He lived under the constant impression that his life 
would be short, and he aimed at using every mo- 
ment of time to advance the cause of Jesus his 
Savior. His course of duty was sometimes very 
difficult, at other times very uncertain, and not to 
be traced by human wisdom. His health, and other 
dispensations of Divine Providence, often appeared 
as barriers in his way, but he never faltered ; he 
was a man of faith and zeal, and as far as God 
opened the way, he labored with diligence. 

His steadfastness and energy are displayed in the 
course he pursued when he sailed the last time for 
China. The physicians advised him of the dangers 
attending his departure, and the uncertainty of the 
prospect that he would ever reach the port of desti- 
nation. His debility and sufferings called him to 
remain where he might obtain all the comforts of 
home, and medical aid. Weeping friends urged 
upon his mind the consideration that his presence 
at home was of great benefit to the cause of mis- 



286 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

sions, and besought him to tarry — but he had de- 
voted himself to the ignorant inhabitants of China, 
and there he felt that he must go, if he could only 
labor for a short time. To all his answer was, " No, 
I shall not forsake the heathen, while I have any 
strength to employ for their salvation ; and if it is 
the will of God that my grave shall be on heathen 
ground, it will be the more delightful in the morning 
of the resurrection, to rise from the post which my 
Savior assigns me." The result proved that his 
work was not yet all done in that place ; for the 
most interesting and useful part of his missionary 
career is embraced in the time of his last visit to 
China. Then God broke down the partition wall, 
and bade him and his fellow-laborers enter in, and 
have free intercourse with her degraded inhabitants. 

His labors only ceased when his strength failed. 
His last sermon to the Chinese was preached under 
the pressure of severe debility and with much exertion. 
When he returned again to the land of his fathers, 
he was worn out and broken down by toil and dis- 
ease, and it was evident that his work was all done. 
It had been well and faithfully performed, under the 
smiles and directing providence of his covenant God. 

A letter has recently been received from the Rev. 
Dr. Anderson, Secretary of the A. B. C. F. M., 
containing the following views of the character and 
public services of Mr. Abeel ; with which we con- 
clude this sketch. 

" On turning my thoughts to the subject of Dr. 
Abeel's missionary character, I do not find myself 
in circumstances to do any sort of justice to it. My 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 287 

acquaintance with him was not sufficiently personal ; 
it was too exclusively that of a correspondent and 
distant observer, to get at those nice shades, which 
are essential to an accurate portraiture of his char- 
acter. It does not yield to my opportunities for 
observation or powers of analysis. I will suggest 
such facts, however, as readily occur to me. 

" Dr. Abeel had his own appropriate sphere. His 
gentlemanly manners and fine feelings made him ac- 
ceptable and gave him access to the more wealthy 
and cultivated classes, both of Christians and hea- 
thens. If he was frequently found among these 
classes, it was because such was his vocation and he 
yielded to it, and sought there to exert an influence 
in behalf of his favorite object. So far as I have 
had the means of knowing, he was never less the 
Christian missionary when among the wealthy and 
accomplished, than he was when among classes of 
less pretension. All who knew him will acknowl- 
edge the truth of this. It required no more effort 
for him to maintain everywhere the character of the 
missionary, than it did that of the Christian. The 
whole development of his religious character was 
indeed missionary, owing probably to the singularly 
benevolent cast of his piety, and to his having so 
early devoted himself to the missionary work. The 
benevolence of his piety, the ease of his manners, 
the attractiveness of his conversation, combined to 
endear him to many of the finest Christian spirits 
among us of both sexes, when he was at home, who 
delighted to alleviate his sufferings, and were in 
turn much benefited. I wish there might be others 



288 MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 

to succeed him ; for the rich find it hard to enter 
the kingdom of heaven ; and the harder, because so 
few approach them, as our brother always did, in 
the simplicity and frankness of the Gospel. 

" So far as the prominent men among the apos- 
tolical and other missionaries of the first age of the 
Christian church are known to us, they were unlike 
each other, notwithstanding their resemblance in 
spirit to Christ. Our brother was not a Paul ; nor 
was he a Peter; he more resembled the beloved 
John. He was fitted to conciliate, to win ; he was 
a good pioneer in a mission. Men could not help 
reposing confidence in him. His countenance, 
voice, and manner, all tended to disarm prejudice, 
and predisposed men to listen and assent. It was a 
good thing for the Amoy mission, that he was one 
who commenced it ; and to this, among many other 
favoring providences, we owe much of the pecul- 
iarly tolerant spirit among the leading Chinese of 
that place. The impression he made during his brief 
visit to Bangkok, in Siam, was also singularly happy. 
It was hard even for prejudiced and bigoted pagans 
to resist the impression, notwithstanding his imper- 
fect use of their language, that his aim was to do 
them good ; and the grace of God had taught him, 
that the secret of the missionary success is in 
preaching Christ, as the only name under heaven 
given among men whereby we must be saved. 
Grace also inclined him everywhere to make direct 
efforts for the salvation of individual men, as he 
had opportunity. In this respect he was a true suc- 
cessor of the Apostles. 



MEMOIR OF DAVID ABEEL. 289 

"What he would have accomplished as a mis- 
sionary, had he possessed more health and a more 
vigorous constitution, and been able completely to 
master that most difficult of all languages, the Chi- 
nese, and to spend a series of years in continuous 
missionary labors, we cannot know. Nor is it nec- 
essary, to a high appreciation of his character and 
usefulness as a missionary, that we should know. 
He did what he could — he was faithful unto death 
— he illustrated the spirit of his Lord and Master, 
in the view of the heathen, and in view of the 
churches at home ; and his memory will be cherished, 
not only in the Reformed Dutch Church,* but by 
multitudes in other kindred bodies of Christians as- 
sociated in the work of foreign missions." 

Such is a sketch of the character of David Abeel. 
It is believed to be a faithful picture of his views 
of duty, and their effect on his life. It testifies to 
the power of the grace of God to convert, to sanc- 
tify, and to make useful in the service of the Re- 
deemer. Who would not seek the same grace, 
and profit by its happy influences. He has gone to 
his reward. The ardent, devoted child of God has 
now realized the happiness of that state, which, 
when he dwelt on earth, was the chief object of his 
hopes and desires. 

"The path of the just is as the shining light 
which shineth more and more unto the perect 

DAY." 

13 



APPENDIX. 



RELIGIOUS VADE MECUM, 

PREPARED BY DAVID ABEEL, AT CANTON, 1830. 



DAILY GUIDE. 

[to be read carefully every morning.] 

Commenced another precious day. 

An important part of temporal existence. 

A minor cycle of human life. 

Cannot be spent without great spiritual benefit, or 
injury. 

Has a bearing upon all the future, and must result 
in unspeakable gain or loss, to yourself and 
others. 

Can never be recalled. 

Must leave the remnant more contracted than be- 
fore. 

May be the last. 

Is equally important as though it closed the season 
of preparation. 

Must be reviewed under circumstances of the great- 
est solemnity and interest. 

" Have more and greater business to do with God 
this day, than with all the world all my life." 



RELIGIOUS VADE MECUM. 291 

IN GENERAL, CONSIDERING THE PROBABLE EVENTS 
OF THE DAY. 

What duties are to be performed ? 
What sins to be avoided ? 



PARTICULAR REGULATIONS IN PRIVATE. 

1. What your hand findeth to do, do with your 
might. 

2. Guard against distracting haste, and wandering 

thoughts in duty. 

3. Read the word with close and prayerful attention. 

4. In singing, attend to devotion, not style. 

5. Give a season to solemn meditation. 

6. If dejected, fly to your ever present, sympathiz- 
ing Friend. 

7. Cultivate habits of holy intimacy with the 
Savior. 

8. Avoid temptation. 

9. Obsta principiis. 

10. If tempted, look to Jesus for strength; and 
remember that your Savior endured tempta- 
tions and agonies for you, " and ye are not your 
own." 

11. Labor to be as much detached from the world 
as possible. Exclude the future of life from 
your plans, desires, and thoughts, except as 
dictated by evident duty. To-day ! To-day ! 
make everything of to-day ! 

12. Cherish a strong interest in the cause of Christ, 

especially in the conversion of the heathen, sea- 
men, and ungodly friends. 



292 APPENDIX. 

13. Keep hourly in mind, that even should you do 
your best, which is rarely the case, you are an 
unprofitable servant ; and that nothing, but the 
infinite sacrifice of Jesus, can be of the least 
avail to justification and eternal life. 

REGULATIONS FOR CONDUCT IN THE SOCIETY OP 

OTHERS. 

1. Indulge no levity, wit, or anecdote, without a 
correct motive and good tendency. 

2. Avoid the appearance of dullness, dejection, un- 

amiableness, &c. 

3. Say and do nothing which appears like self- 
praise, or can possibly foster pride. 

4. Be tender of the feelings of all, and avoid retali- 

ation, censure, sarcasm, &c. 

5. Never hear with the least expression of pleas- 
ure, nor utter a word, which can be interpreted 
into anything like a momentary forgetfulness 
of the importance and necessity of religion. 

6. If occasion requires, or circumstances will ad- 
mit, show the deepest interest in commending, 
explaining, and enforcing truth. 

7. Labor to create opportunities of promoting the 
eternal welfare of your fellow-men. 

8. Never forget your station, responsibility, and 

final account. 

9. Dwell upon the inconceivable and eternal con- 
sequences of your ministry to others. 



RELIGIOUS VADE MECUM. 293 

EVENING RETROSPECT. 

1. With what feelings arise ? 

2. How engage in private devotion ? 

3. How family, or social ? 

4. What frame of mind until noon ? 

5. How discharge devotional duties then ? 

6. What exercises since ? 

7. Any solicitude for missions, or the cause of 
Christ in general ? 

8. Any for friends and acquaintances ? 

9. Any animating glimpses of heaven ? 

10. Any new arguments to self-denial, sacrifice, ex- 

ertion, prayer ? 

11. Any new views, or salutary impressions from 

the word ? 

12. Any discoveries in your own heart from thoughts, 

wishes, imaginations, &c. ? 

13. What sins in private or public ? 

14. What temptations and how resist them ? 

15. What done for salvation of fellow-immortals ? 

16. Did you seek opportunities of usefulness, and 

avail yourself of all ? 

17. Done or said nothing to injure religion, or the 

souls of men ? 

18. What progress in studies ? 

19. With what motives ? 

THIS WORLD AS OPPOSED TO SPIRITUAL RELIGION. 

1. God hath shown its worthlessness : — 
In the life and death of Jesus, 



294 APPENDIX. 

In case of the Apostles, and best men, 

In giving it to greatest enemies. Nero, Helioga- 

balus, &c, 

In utterly disappointing the expectations of men. 

2. He hath curtailed our life, so that we cannot 

enjoy it. 

3. He hath allowed it to be our greatest tempta- 

tion ; and, at the same time declared, " If any 
man love the world the love of the Father is 
not in him." 

OF THE CHRISTIAN'S RELATIONS. 

To your daily associates, 

Intimate friends, 

Whole circle of acquaintances, 

Society by which employed, 

Church to which you belong, 

Christendom, 

World, 

Future generations, 

Eternity. 

PRAYER. 

The most important of all duties. 

If ever successful in any personal or relative duty, 
it must come exclusively from God. 

The deepest solicitude for the cause of Christ, in- 
stead of diverting the attention in prayer, should 
increase its spirit. 

Thus, in the presence of the ungodly, instead of 
aiming to affect their hearts, our hearts should 



RELIGIOUS VADE MECUM. 295 

be fixed upon Him whose power alone can con- 
vert. 

Should regard prayer as the greatest assistance, or 
means of success in everything. 

How unwise to have the mind so distracted by the 
other duties of the day, as to be in the least in- 
disposed to that, which is the most direct means 
of giving them any avail. 

HELPS IN PRAYER. 

1. Remember your entire dependence on God, 
We are not " sufficient of ourselves." 

2. Send up petitions for Divine assistance. — " My 
soul cleaveth unto the dust ; quicken thou me 
according to thy word." 

3. Engage your heart previously — " Who is this 

that hath engaged his heart to approach unto 
me, saith the Lord." 

4. Seek to gain a spiritual mind. — " Be thou in the 
fear of the Lord all the day long f and then 
you can and do pray without ceasing. 

5. Persevere in prayer, notwithstanding distrac- 

tions. 

6. Neglect not the Holy Scripture.— " He that 
turneth away his ear from hearing the law, 
even his prayer shall be abomination." 

7. Mortify all sin. — "If I regard iniquity in my 

heart, the Lord will not hear me." 

8. Watch for the answer, as well as the spirit of 
prayer. In the evening ask, " Have I received 
what I prayed for ?" 



296 APPENDIX. 

9. Meditate before prayer. — " While I was musing 
the fire burned ; then spake I with my tongue." 
10. Renounce all known sin. — "If our heart con- 
demn us not, then have we confidence towards 
God ; and whatsoever we ask we receive of 
him, because we keep his commandments, and 
do those things which are pleasing in his sight.'* 

ENCOURAGEMENTS TO PRAYER. 

"Remember not the sins of my youth nor my 
transgressions ; according to thy mercy remember 
thou me, for thy goodness sake, O Lord." 

" For thy name's sake, O Lord, pardon mine ini- 
quity, for it is great." 

" O Lord, though our iniquities testify against us, 
do thou it, for thy name's sake, for our backslidings 
are many, we have sinned against thee." 

"Oh the hope of Israel, the Savior thereof in 
time of trouble, why shouldest thou be as a stranger 
in the land, and as a wayfaring man that turnest 
aside to tarry for a night ?" 

" Why shouldest thou be as a man astonished, as 
a mighty man that cannot save ; yet, thou, O Lord, 
art in the midst of us, and we are called by thy 
name, leave us not." 

" Call upon me, and I will answer, thee, and will 
show thee great and mighty things, which thou 
knowest not." 

" He is able to do exceeding abundantly above 
all that we ask or think." 

" And this is the confidence that we have in him, 



RELIGIOUS VADE MECUM. 297 

that if we ask anything according to His will, He 
heareth us." 

" Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities, 
&c. He that searcheth the hearts knoweth what 
is the mind of the Spirit, because He maketh inter- 
cession for the saints according to the will of God." 

" Having therefore, brethren, boldness to enter 
into the holiest, by the blood of Jesus." 

" If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to 
forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all un- 
righteousness." 

" Call upon me in the day of trouble, I will deli- 
ver thee, and thou shalt glorify me." 

HEAVEN. 

Heaven consists in the perfect enjoyment of the 
presence and communion of the exalted Savior. 

In the full display of the infinite love, goodness, 
grace, wisdom, and power of God, through Jesus 
the Savior — the revelations of the eternal counsels 
of His will, especially in the glorious work of Re- 
demption. 

In the delightful society of myriads of Angelic 
Spirits, and of Prophets, Apostles, Martyrs and 
Saints, redeemed from earth, all constituting one 
harmonious family, with Jesus the Head. 

Heaven is 

A separation from The enjoyment of 

Defiling corruptions, Perfect purity, 

Heart-sinking sorrows, Fulness of joy, 

13* 



298 



APPENDIX. 



Think 
of 



Everlasting freedom 
Full rest, 

Universal supplies, 
Highest security, 
Substantial good. 

experience with Heaven. 

The fulness of joy in 

Heaven, 
Its unabating excitement, 
Immortal energy, 
Liveliest affection, 
No wish, inducement, pos- 
sibility of sinning, 
Free, full, forgiveness, 
Perfect holiness, 
Glories of the New Jeru- 
salem, 
Inheritance of all things, 
Multitude innumerable, 
Husband, hosts of breth- 
ren, 
Disesteemed, slighted? Disinterested love, 
Opposed ? Perfect unanimity, 

Separated from friends ? Everlasting fellowship, 

Sick ? Perfect health, 

Longing for the love and Every desire perfectly gra- 
likeness of Jesus ? — tified, enjoying as much 
for anything ? of God as the soul can 

desire. 



Entangling temptations, 
Distressing persecutions, 
Pinching wants, 
Distracting fears, 
Deluding shadows. 

Daily associate all your 

Are your spirits 
excited ? 
Depressed ? 
Wearied ? 
Stupid ? 
Tempted ? 

Sin-burdened ? 

Sin polluted ? 
Fascinated by earthly 
grandeur ? 

Profusion ? 
Animated by crowds ? 
Left to loneliness ? 



SERMON ON HEAVEN. 

BY DAVID ABEEL. 

" And so shall we ever be with the Lord."— 1 Thess. iv. 17, last clause. 

As man's chief duty consists in the cultivation of 
the affections, so his highest happiness results from 
their proper exercise. 

Man was formed for society. Unlinked from the 
chain of sympathy which unites him to his fellow- 
beings, he cannot be happy. This law of our na- 
ture admits of no infringement. The uniform ex- 
perience of the heart — its hopes and fears — and joys 
and sorrows — its plans and pursuits — all demonstrate 
this truth. Amiableness, benevolence, gratitude, 
sympathy, all those principles which are essential to 
perfection of character, are quite as indispensable 
to enjoyment, and have no element but society. 
But man was not simply designed for companion- 
ship, he was originally intended for the highest class 
of society. The Creator formed him for Himself. 
He impressed his spirit with His own image — He 
endowed it with powers capable of endless advance- 
ment — and He Himself must become the infinite 
object of adoration and love, or no immortal being 
can be perfectly and unchangeably happy. 

This may require demonstration to some minds ; 



300 APPENDIX. 

but only to those who forget that the present is our 
infantile state of existence, and, that here, ignorance 
and error completely enwrap the majority of our 
race. When the spell of sin is broken, when the 
sinner is brought to love and serve his God and 
Savior, the soul aspires to her original destination. 
Or, should the delusion continue until death, it can 
survive no longer. When we awake to immortality, 
God must be our Friend and Portion, or the uni- 
verse cannot compensate the loss. With such a 
Friend, who can measure the degree or assign the 
duration to our bliss. Inquire of the most enlight- 
ened and experienced man on earth — the aged 
Christian — whose heart has long been the temple 
of the Holy Ghost — what defines the heaven he is 
struggling to obtain ; and if the depth of his soul 
could give utterance to its strongest emotions, it 
would cry out — " To be ever with the Lord — to be 
ever with the Lord." 

I. This is heaven. It is essentially a state 
of social felicity. " Our fellowship is with the 
Father, and with His Son, Jesus Christ." 

Friendship the most intimate and enduring, al- 
ways claims for its support those moral and intel- 
lectual qualities which the judgment approves ; and 
where there is a capacity to appreciate excellence, 
the more elevated the character, the more intense 
will be the interest it creates. What then must be 
the enjoyment of God to all those whom His own 
mighty power has wrought to this high destiny. 
Here is esteem and love heightened by boundless 
admiration. Infinite majesty — infinite mercy, com- 



SERMON ON HEAVEN. 301 

bined. His glorious incommunicable attributes — 
His independence, eternity, immutability, immensity 
— must fill the mind with the most profound vene- 
ration and filial complacency ; while His condescen- 
sion and kindness overwhelm it with wonder and 
delight. 

Zophar desired that God would show Job the 
secrets of wisdom. This is impossible on earth, but 
in heaven there are no secrets, none, at least, which 
may be comprehended. Mysteries incomprehen- 
sible to finite minds, there ever must be, and this 
secures the eternity of intellectual enjoyment. 

The soul shall drink in knowledge, pure and copi- 
ous, from its original living Fountain, without ever 
being able to exhaust the source ; nay, with no other 
restriction than that which limits its own capacity. 
Who can conceive the animation with which we 
shall explore those purposes which are developed in 
the grandeur and variety of creation, and fulfilled in 
the vast, the minute, the simple, the complex events 
of universal Providence. Then we shall see through 
this magnificent scaffolding and perceive the design 
of its erection. All that was dark, and dubious, and 
perplexing on earth, shall here appear in the most 
admirable order and connection ; the fruits of infi- 
nite benevolence. And above all, with what incon- 
ceivable joy shall " the redeemed from among men," 
be admitted to those "treasures of wisdom and 
knowledge, which are hid in Christ Jesus, which 
God ordained before the world unto our glory." 
Herein, we are taught, is displayed u the manifold 
wisdom of God," which "the principalities and pow- 



302 APPENDIX. 

ers in heavenly places" now bend their mighty en- 
ergies to comprehend. That which has occupied 
the Divine mind from eternity, will surely furnish 
themes of exhaustless interest to all the intelligences 
of heaven through their endless career. 

Omnipotence is another attribute, which is fitly 
consorted with infinite wisdom. " God hath spoken 
once, twice have I heard this, that power belongeth 
unto God." 

Here is the primal source of power — that power 
which created all things — which supplies, and, of 
course, controls all the energy that can ever be 
brought to resist it — and yet, which only moves to 
accomplish purposes of paternal kindness to the uni- 
verse. How gratifying to every holy mind, that this 
glorious, perfect Being can perform all His pleasure. 

In Him we shall see combined with infinite wis- 
dom and power, infinite purity and rectitude. " He 
is glorious in holiness." This attribute is the crown- 
ing excellence of His character, adorning all His 
other perfections, and rendering their operations im- 
mutably right. It inspires boundless and universal 
confidence, and awakens the unceasing praises of 
the heavenly host. 

But there is still another aspect in which He has 
delighted to commend Himself to us, his erring crea- 
tures. " God is love." Such is the sum of the rev- 
elation He has made of Himself in His word, and in 
His Son — essential, eternal, unchageable love. In 
yonder bright world we shall be able to account for 
that love which gave up its dearest object to death 
for its enemies. The face of this love, beaming in 



SERMON ON HEAVEN. 303 

all its radiance, without one gathering frown, or in- 
tervening cloud, shall pour its tide of light and life 
into our souls forever. Mightily strengthened by 
the Spirit, we shall then be able " to comprehend 
what is the breadth and length, and depth and height, 
and to know the love of Christ which passeth knowl- 
edge." 

But it is not in the contemplation of His attributes 
separately that we shall then, as we do now, become 
acquainted with our Father and God. 

He has declared, that " we shall see Him face to 
face" — that " we shall see Him as He is." We shall 
behold this perfect character in its undivided integ- 
rity. It is the glory beaming from all these insepa- 
rable attributes, in the presence of which our blessed 
Redeemer has promised to present us. To bring 
this infinite nature more within our view, it has been 
embodied in the mediatorial person of God's co-equal 
Son. " In Him dwells all the fulness of the God- 
head bodily." An infinite Being can never be fully 
comprehended but by Himself; and doubtless much 
of the brightness of that glory, which would other- 
wise have been too dazzling for even immortal vision, 
shall be transmitted through the glorified humanity 
of the Redeemer. Here our minds, even now, find 
a resting place. Though His Deity was almost con- 
stantly veiled while upon earth, yet we well remem- 
ber this exhibition of love, stooping to the lowest 
conditions of life, to the humblest offices of affection, 
displaying a benevolence which the universe never 
witnessed before ; while, occasionally, the rays of 
the Godhead would gleam forth — and death and hell 



304 APPENDIX. 

recognizing His majesty would resign their prey — 
and nature would suspend her uniform laws — and 
her most ungovernable elements would instantly 
obey His voice. This character, with all its lofty 
attributes, is presented to the mind as simple and 
entire. We grasp it at once. If so lovely in His 
humiliation upon earth, how must He appear on His 
own throne, in His own glory, and the glory of His 
Father. 

" I beseech thee, show me thy glory/' said Moses. 
But though God made His goodness to pass before 
him, and proclaimed His name, yet He added, " Thou 
canst not see my face, for there shall no man (no 
mortal) see me and live." Nothing less than Divine 
power can fortify the soul to behold Divine glory. 
This is reserved for heaven. It is the beatific vis- 
ion of the blessed. With an eye which blenches not 
at uncreated light — with a heart whose element is 
perfect holiness — what must it be to dwell in the 
presence of this glory. Well might the Apostle de- 
clare, that the sufferings of this present time, and his 
sufferings too, are not worthy to be compared with 
the glory which is to be revealed. Happy spirits ! 
who have escaped from the sins and infirmities of 
the flesh, and are now before the throne of God, and 
the Lamb. " They see His face, and His name is in 
their foreheads." It is the admiration of this glorious 
character which sustains the ceaseless praises of the 
ransomed and angelic throng. " They rest not day 
or night, saying, Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Al- 
mighty, which was, and is, and is to come." " Bless- 
ing, and glory, and wisdom, and thanksgiving, and 



SERMON ON HEAVEN. 305 

honor, and power, and might, be unto our God for- 
ever and ever. Amen." Who that loves truth, 
knowledge, purity, perfection, does not long for such 
a destiny. Who does not cry out, " My soul thirst- 
eth for God, for the living God; when shall I come 
and appear before God." " Whom have I in heaven 
but thee, and there is none upon the earth that I de- 
sire besides thee." 

This, then, must ever be the chief source of hap- 
piness in heaven — the admiration, the love, the en- 
joyment of a Being of infinite perfections — who is 
as condescending and lovely, as He is exalted and 
powerful. 

II. But this happiness is increased by the 

STRONGEST SENSE OF GRATITUDE FOR God's MANY 

most unmerited favors. " Thy Maker is thy hus- 
band, the Lord of Hosts is his name : and thy Re- 
deemer, the Holy one of Israel ; the God of the whole 
earth shall he be called." It is the Lamb that was 
slain who fills the eternal throne. What a world of 
transporting interest does this open to the mind. The 
mysterious union of the creature with the Creator — 
of the victim with the Being whose inviolable justice 
and universal government demanded the sacrifice — 
are themes which can only be named in this world. 
Our low and lost condition — our exposure to eternal 
misery — our deep and repulsive depravity — our ten 
thousand thousand provocations and sins — shall all 
be remembered to enhance the mercy which saved 
us ; while the voluntary abasement of this exalted 
Being — his assumption of all our liabilities — and the 
privation, and reproach, and toil, and agony which 



306 APPENDIX. 

His love cost Him — shall produce the deepest impres- 
sion upon the mind. We must see Him on His 
throne, — we must hear the pealing acclamation, 
*' Worthy is the Lamb that was slain," as it breaks 
from the whole ransomed multitude, and awakens 
the responses of all the angelic choirs, before we 
shall be qualified to look back to the scenes which 
He enacted in Bethlehem, and Nazareth, and Geth- 
semane — in the hall of Pilate, and on Calvary. 
When we see the very highest honors of heaven 
paid to the Lamb of God, His sacrifice shall appear 
in its true light. Not till then, shall we be fully pre- 
pared to sing that new song, which none can learn 
but they who were redeemed from the earth. Then, 
too, shall we be able to appreciate the condescension 
and forbearance of the Holy Spirit, in renewing our 
hearts and educating us for heaven. "We shall 
remember all the way which the Lord our God led 
us." Every blessing we have ever received shall 
be traced to this love. 

" He bowed beneath our heavy woes, 
To raise us to His throne : 
There's ne'er a gift His hand bestows, 
But cost his heart a groan." 

From the depth of the bottomless pit which we 
have escaped — from the height of the excellent glory 
which we have attained — from the past eternity, in 
the counsels of which we were chosen in Christ 
Jesus — from the scenes of the endless future, which 
have opened in radiant perspective before us — 
wherever we turn, we shall find subjects for the 
purest gratitude and most profound astonishment. 



SERMON ON HEAVEN. 307 

Every emotion of happiness which the redeemed 
enjoy in heaven finds but one appropriate expres- 
sion ; " Unto Him that loved us, and washed us from 
our sins in His own blood, and hath made us kings 
and priests unto God and His father, to Him be 
glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen." 

III. Again, the happiness of heaven is greatly 

ENHANCED BY THE DEGREE OF INTIMACY WITH WHICH 

this great Being honors us. To be received as 
subjects, servants, vassals, with the privilege of behold- 
ing His glory and with the gratitude of redeeming 
love upon our hearts, would be heaven. But this is 
not the heaven to which we have been called. We 
are admitted into a union with Himself, the nature of 
which cannot be fully represented by the analogies 
of earth. Every relationship of life has been laid 
under contribution to shadow it forth. He calls 
Himself our Friend, our Father, our Husband ; and 
when He appeared among men, the Son of God 
employed every conceivable simile to make it 
known. He compared it to the branches and vine 
— the head and its members — the living principle 
and the being whom it animates — not only to dif- 
ferent parts of the same material body, but to the 
same indivisible spirit. He asumed our nature, and 
united it in one person with His own, that He 
might become one with us. He gives us His own 
Spirit, to make us one with Him. Nothing upon 
earth, nothing in creation, could satisfy Him as a fit 
emblem of this union ; and hence, leaving all infe- 
rior subjects of relationship, He points us to the in- 
comprehensible oneness which exists between Him- 



308 APPENDIX. 

self and His Father, while He prays " That they 
all may be one, as thou Father art in me, and I in 
thee, that they also may be one with us." " I am 
in my Father, and you in me, and I in you." No 
king has ever admitted his greatest favorite on such 
terms of intimacy — no mother her only child — no 
husband the wife of his strongest affections. Noth- 
ing less than such a union, can explain those parts 
of revelation which confound our faith, and even 
overpower imagination. For example : — " I in them 
and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in 
one, and that the world may know that thou hast 
sent me, and hast loved them even as thou hast loved 
me" " I appoint unto you a kingdom as my Father 
hath appointed unto me, that ye may eat and drink 
at my table, and sit on thrones, judging the twelve 
tribes of Israel/' " Heirs of God, and joint heirs 
with Christ, if so be that we suffer with him, that 
we may be also glorified together/' 

" To him that overcometh, will I grant to sit with 
me in my throne, even as I also overcame and am 
set down with my Father in His throne." u Behold 
the tabernacle of God is with men ; and He will 
dwell with them, and they shall be His people, and 
God himself shall be with them, and be their God, 
and God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes ; 
and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, 
nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain, for 
the former things are passed away." 

IV. This happiness will be perpetuated and 

CONTINUALLY HEIGHTENED BY BEHOLDING THE BLESS- 
EDNESS AND GLORY OF HlM WHOM WE LOVE SUPREMELY 



SERMON ON HEAVEN. 309 

— to whom we owe our all. This, most emphati- 
cally, is the heaven of the redeemed. This is their 
final rest. As they enter the higher and purer regions 
of the spiritual life on earth, all other interests suc- 
cessively expire ; and when they reach that point 
where the light of heaven often mingles with the 
shades of earth, and the visions of the blessed break 
in upon the entranced spirit, their energies become 
concentrated in one absorbing desire, that their Re- 
deemer may be glorified and infinitely happy. This 
our blessed Lord well knew. In His memorable 
prayer to His Father, He makes no request for our 
personal happiness. His petition was — " Father, 
I will that they also whom thou hast given me be 
with me where I am, that they may behold my glory 
which thou hast given me, for thou lovedst me be- 
fore the foundation of the world." Just in propor- 
tion as our love to Him exceeds the love we bear 
to self, or to any other being, must the joy from 
this source transcend all other joy. This gives a 
double intensity to our being " glorified together 
with Him." Though we shall be exalted to His 
own throne, and be made partakers of His own 
honors, yet our highest bliss will not arise from our 
exaltation but from His. As the members of the 
body are perfectly subservient to the head, and only 
move to obey its directions, so shall we lose almost 
the consciousness of a separate existence, and only 
live in Him who is our Head and Life. Even be- 
fore His final advent to make up His jewels, those 
who have passed into His heavenly kingdom are 
represented as exulting in the triumphs of His Gos- 



310 APPENDIX. v 

pel upon earth. Moses and Elias met Him on the 
mount of transfiguration, and conversed with Him 
of His decease. Many arose with Him from the 
dead, and most probably attended Him to His 
throne. At the return of every prodigal — at the 
repentance of every sinner — all the happy family in 
heaven rejoice. And when the power of Anti- 
christ — that greatest obstacle to the universal prev- 
alence of Christianity — shall be destroyed, the Pro- 
phet, wrapt in the visions of the future " heard as it 
were the voice of a great multitude, and as the 
voice of many waters, and as the voice of mighty 
thunderings, saying, Alleluia, for the Lord God Om- 
nipotent reigneth ; let us be glad and rejoice, and 
give honor to Him, for the marriage of the Lamb is 
come, and His wife hath made herself ready. And 
the seventh angel sounded, and there were great 
voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world 
are become the kingdoms of the Lord, and of His 
Christ, and He shall reign forever. And the four 
and twenty elders (the representatives of the church 
on earth) which sat before God on their seats, fell 
upon their faces, and worshipped God, saying, We 
give thee thanks, O Lord God Almighty, which art, 
and wast, and art to come ; because thou hast taken 
to thee thy great power, and hast reigned." That 
will be a time of exaltation to them — which, for 
the honors their Redeemer shall reap, is desig- 
nated " The day of Jesus Christ," — when He shall 
raise the dead, and change the living, and sit 
as Judge over assembled worlds ; — when all His 
ways of mercy and of justice shall be brought to 



SERMON ON HEAVEN. 311 

light — when His enemies can find no fault except 
with themselves — when " every knee shall bow, of 
things in heaven, and things in earth, and things 
under the earth ; and every tongue shall confess 
that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the 
Father." 

What events shall transpire beyond the judgment, 
we are not informed. Of one fact we are certain ; 
the Son of God shall lose none of His honors, but 
most probably new glories will be clustering upon 
His head forever. The infinite resources of His 
nature, the immensity of His works, and His own 
eternal majesty, all require this. 

The drama of redemption must have a prospec- 
tive bearing, and when the great family of the re- 
deemed are gathered home, we shall unquestionably 
witness other consequences by which we shall learn 
still more of " the manifold wisdom of God." 

" And so shall we be ever with the Lord." 

" Millions of years, our wondering eyes 
Shall o'er His beauties rove ; 
And endless ages will adore 
The glories of His love." 

" Because I live, ye shall live also." What secu- 
rity ! All the instincts and aspirations of our immor- 
tal nature are here perfectly satisfied. No dreaded 
contingency — no unfulfilled condition— no possibil- 
ity of change — shall disturb the delightful assurance 
that all we ever enjoy, shall be enjoyed forever. 
" Him that overcometh will I make a pillar in the 
temple of my God, and he shall go no more out." 



312 APPENDIX. 

This is a distant, dim view of the glories of the 
upper world — " Now we see only through a glass 
darkly." 

These are parts of our Father's ways with His 
children ; " but how little a portion is heard of 
Him/' 

Thus far we have scarcelv referred to what is 
called the subjective glory of the saints — the new 
and inconceivably improved state of the soul — its 
vastly augmented capacity of knowledge and sus- 
ceptibility of enjoyment — its perfection in holiness 
— its eternal exemption from all moral or physical 
embarrassments ; — and after the resurrection, its 
possession of a body which we are taught shall be 
incorruptible, glorious, powerful, spiritual, an instru- 
ment to assist its operations, and supply it with new 
faculties, and sources of joy. The testimony of in- 
spiration on this subject is, " When that which is 
perfect is come, then that which is in part shall 
be done away." " Now I know in part, but then 
shall I know even as also I am known :" a surprising 
passage, and one on which I scarcely dare venture 
an opinion, for it evidently compares our knowledge 
with that of Omniscience itself. 

The glorified humanity of the Son of God is the 
type of our future advancement. " It doth not yet 
appear what we shall be, but we know that when 
He shall appear we shall be like Him, for we shall 
see Him as He is." And being ever with the Lord, 
these faculties shall be in the progress of rapid and 
endless improvement. 

We have just hinted at the subjects of thrilling 



SERMON ON HEAVEN. 313 

investigation, which countless worlds, in all their 
physical variety, and the nature and condition of 
their occupants, shall furnish. 

We have made no allusion to those most interest- 
ing services with which we have reason to befcve 
we shall be honored, services which are the spon- 
taneous expressions of ardent love — in the perform- 
ance of which, instead of a momentary suspense of 
our highest bliss, we shall be like the angels in their 
earthly ministrations ; who, while guarding the little 
ones of the Great Shepherd's flock, " do always be- 
hold the face of our Father which is in heaven." 
They carry heaven with them, and increase their 
enjoyment by their benefactions. 

Not an allusion has been made to the delight of 
intercourse with the innumerable company of holy, 
exalted, most united beings, many of whom we knew 
and loved upon earth — the glory and honor of the 
nations — the elite of the universe. The intimate 
relationship, and perfect affinity which unites this 
great family of angels and men, of whom Jesus is 
the Head, shall endear them to each other beyond 
all the ties of earth. And here, too, the friendship 
of brethren can be no interruption to the enjoyment 
of the Great Head of the household. Nay, we 
shall assist each other's mighty joys. Shining forth 
as the sun in the kingdom of our Father, we shall 
multiply the exhibitions of the divine glory, and re- 
flect its light upon each other. 

These, pre-eminently, as the chief of the ways of 
God's creative power and redeeming mercy, will en- 
chain our souls w r ith new wonder to the Redeemer. 

14 



314 APPENDIX. 

Nothing can divert us from the great central object 
of admiration and of love in heaven, but all things 
shall combine to increase our knowledge, and en- 
hance our appreciation of Him who is all in all. 

r e " Thou art the Source and Centre of all minds, 
Their only point of rest, Eternal Word ; 
Thou art, of all thy gifts, Thyself the crown." 

That infinite Being who is the heaven of yonder 
bright world, is the only heaven enjoyed by His 
people on earth, — " Whom having not seen ye love, 
in whom, though now ye see Him not, yet believ- 
ing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of 
glory." Just as far as we delight in his presence 
and communion here, may we indulge the hope 
that we shall be ever with him. Let us often dwell 
upon these ineffable glories. They were revealed 
for our sanctification ; for " every man that hath 
this hope in him, purifieth himself even as He is 
pure." 

How admirably adapted is their influence to com- 
pose the mind under the shocks which it daily en- 
counters from sins, and infirmities, and sickness, and 
change, and death. We are orphans indeed without 
this hope ; but with it, under every trial, we may 
hear the soothing voice of our heavenly Friend, ex- 
claiming, — " Let not your heart be troubled — ye 
believe in God, believe also in me. In my Father's 
house are many mansions, if it were not so I would 
have told you. I go to prepare a place for you ; and 
if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come 



SERMON ON HEAVEN. 315 

again and receive you unto myself, that where I am 
there ye may be also." 

" This glorious hope revives 
Oar courage by the way, 
While each in expectation lives, 
And longs to see the day. 

" From sorrow, toil, and pain, 
And sin we shall be free ; 
And perfect love, and friendship, reign 
Through all Eternity." 



THE END. 



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